By Tiffany Del Valle
“Subway Therapy,” an art installation by artist Matthew Chavez, began as a response to Donald Trump winning the 2016 presidential election. It served as a vehicle for subway riders in Greenwich Village to vent about their hopes, qualms, and frustrations by writing them on a sticky note and pasting it on the wall. It was located at the West 14th Street and Sixth Ave. train station.
Following the 2024 presidential election, Chavez set up a similar Subway Therapy “Post-It Note” Wall. He took them down, day-in and day-out, starting the day after the election. Some participants intentionally sought out to participate in the writing experience while others stumbled upon it on their Sunday evening commute, just in time before the Post-Its started to come down for the last time on Nov. 10.
On some New Yorkers’ minds? Israel and Palestine, the LGBTQIA+ community, women, and a desire to move forward.
Subway riders participate in the “Subway Therapy” art project at 14th Street/6th Avenue subway station. November 10, 2024. (Credit: Tiffany Del Valle)
“Subway Therapy” artist and creator Matthew Chavez closes public installation. November 10, 2024. (Credit: Tiffany Del Valle)
Passersby read “Subway Therapy” messages on November 10, 2024. (Credit: Tiffany Del Valle)
Passersby read “Subway Therapy” messages on November 10, 2024. (Credit: Tiffany Del Valle)
“Subway Therapy” art project asks New Yorkers what is on their mind after the election. November 10, 2024. (Credit: Tiffany Del Valle)
Subway riders participate in the “Subway Therapy” art project at 14th Street/6th Avenue subway station. November 10, 2024. (Credit: Tiffany Del Valle)
Subway riders participate in the “Subway Therapy” art project at 14th Street/6th Avenue subway station. November 10, 2024. (Credit: Tiffany Del Valle)
“Subway Therapy” messages are displayed on November 10, 2024. (Credit: Tiffany Del Valle)