Times Square transformed: A Midnight Moment in digital art

Times Square transforms for a Midnight Moment each night.

Photo: Michael Hull

Amidst the crowded, buzzing streets of Times Square experience a moment of unity and tranquility through Times Square Arts’ Midnight Moment program. 

The world’s largest and longest-running digital art exhibition displays artwork across more than 95 electronic billboards nightly. From 11:57 p.m. to midnight this summer, people can immerse themselves in the height of contemporary art through three distinct digital exhibits.

For the month of June, artist Marco Brambilla is showcasing his vision of a utopian future through his exhibit: Approximations of Utopia. Brambilla created this future world fair from archival images and AI technology, bringing the environments of six different World Exhibitions to New York City at the same time.

Jean Cooney, the director of Times Square Arts, speaks to the unique magic of Midnight Moment, calling it “one of New York City’s best-kept secrets hiding in plain sight.” She highlights the captivating effect of the synchronized displays, stating, “You have this really beautiful moment of synchronicity both on the billboards as well as the people on the plaza below.”

Midnight Moment transforms the bustling energy of Times Square into a collective pause, where contemporary art becomes accessible to everyone. When the countdown begins at 11:57p.m., digital art soon illuminates the night, offering a profound escape into creativity and imagination. For New Yorkers and visitors alike, the Midnight Moment program is an example of the blending of art and technology in one of the most iconic locations in the world.

One of the remarkable aspects of Midnight Moment is its openness to artists worldwide. “It’s an open call; you know we invite artists to participate but it’s also an open call submission process so send in your video art, we would love to work with you,” Cooney explains.

This month’s featured artist, Marco…