Cherie Corso, an innovative artist and Reiki Master, is bringing the energy of New York City to life in a bold and dynamic way through her art project, “Pulse of New York.” With a deep passion for capturing the essence of the city’s five boroughs—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island—Corso invites New Yorkers and visitors alike to participate in a unique artistic experience. The project blends community involvement with artistic expression, allowing people to physically imprint their energy onto large 5×5 canvases, turning them into living, evolving works of art.
In a city known for its constant the outcome was overwhelming positive not only were people willing to participate, but they were eager to leave their mark. “I was excited to place the canvas in the middle of the busy New York street, that’s the footprint grounding energy,” Corso shared. “But I loved people’s reactions and eagerness to participate they agree NYC is all about the people’s energy”
This innovative project has become a way for people to connect with the city, with each other, and with the transformative power of art. Supported by her friends and family, who help document the project’s journey, Corso has created a community-centered art movement.
Capturing New York’s Energy Through Imprints
At the heart of “Pulse of New York”is Corso’s belief that art can serve as a powerful healing tool, bringing people together in a meaningful way. Her project provides a canvas—literally and figuratively—for people to express themselves. Participants leave behind footprints, handprints, or gestures with pastels, allowing their energy and unique markings to become part of a larger, collective creation.
The imprints people leave behind on the canvas are more than just physical marks. They represent the diversity and vibrancy of New York’s inhabitants—each person contributing to the city’s pulse. Corso’s work exemplifies the power of collective expression, showing how art can capture not just individual stories, but the spirit of an entire city. The canvas is NY energy that can live forever.
One Canvas for Each Borough
The concept is simple yet profound: Corso creates one 5×5 canvas for each borough of New York City, setting up her work in public spaces and inviting anyone passing by to leave their mark. As each borough’s canvas fills with imprints, it begins to reflect the unique energy of that area.
Once the canvas is complete, with marking’s Corso brings it back to studio at The Pelham Art Center. There, she blends the public’s raw contributions with her own artistic vision, transforming the imprints into a cohesive painting. The final artwork becomes a reflection of both the borough’s essence and the people who live there. New York energy captured on canvas can travel the world.
From Fashion Week to Pizza Parlors: Capturing the City’s Spirit
The journey of “Pulse of New York”began in Manhattan during New York Fashion Week. After a glamorous, fast-paced event, models, celebrities and attendees left their marks on the canvas, capturing the vibrant and high-energy atmosphere of the city’s fashion scene. This moment set the tone for the project, showing how art could reflect the pulse of a city as diverse as New York.
Next, the canvas found itself in a local pizza parlor, where it became the centerpiece of a lively event. Patrons walked across the canvas while eating pizza, and the gathering soon transformed into an impromptu dance party, demonstrating the everyday joy and spontaneity that define New York life.
“Pulse of New York”*has attracted a wide range of participants, from financial professionals and NYPD officer, pedicab, designers, politicians even dogs have left their paw prints on the canvases, illustrating the project’s inclusivity and appeal to all. One particularly memorable moment occurred when a mystery man from The Plaza Hotel left his mark, adding a touch of intrigue to the artwork.
From the NYC streets to the Pelham Art Center Studio: Creating a Masterpiece
After each public interaction, Corso takes the canvas back to her studio and The Pelham Art Center where she completes the transformation. Drawing on her skills as an artist and Reiki Master, Corso channels the energy left behind by participants into a vibrant, cohesive work of art. Each finished painting reflects the distinct personality of its borough, but together, they tell a broader story of New York’s interconnectedness.
Through her artistic process, Corso creates a bridge between individual expression and collective energy. The result is a series of artworks that not only depict New York City but embody its spirit. Healing Through Art: The Power of Connection
Corso’s “Pulse of New York” project goes beyond simple artistic expression; it is a testament to the healing power of art. By inviting people from all walks of life to contribute to the canvases, Corso fosters unity. “The marks people leave on the canvases are not just physical—they’re emotional and spiritual imprints,” Corso explains. “I started with an idea that has created a life of its own, and I am so excited for what’s to come.”
“Pulse of New York” A Celebration of Energy and Diversity
As the project continues to unfold, Corso invites everyone—residents and visitors alike—to contribute by walking on the canvas and leaving their mark. When all five borough canvases are completed, they will be displayed together in a public exhibition, offering a powerful visual representation of the collective energy of New York City.
Each canvas tells the story of its borough, but together, they represent the city’s vibrant pulse—an artwork that will continue to live and evolve with the energy of its people.
For updates on Cherie Corso’s next location, follow her on Instagram @cheriecorsoart, TikTok @cheriecorso, or visit CherieCorsoArt.com