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Public art is an integral component of Hudson River Park. The Park’s design process has included the creation and installation of place-specific public sculpture in a number of locations.  In addition, the Park also proudly hosts two public memorials that were carefully planned to be integrated into the Park landscape, as well as other permanent installations that enhance the Park environment.

East of the esplanade and between Pier 46 and Pier 51 is the AIDS Memorial. Unveiled in 2008, the memorial is a 42-foot-long curved stone bench situated on a granite path cut into the lawn situated in a beautifully landscaped knoll near Bank Street. The path is complemented by a balcony that juts out over the river where Pier 49 once stood. The quote engraved into the black granite bench reads: “I can sail without wind, I can row without oars, but I cannot part from my friend without tears.”

Dedicated on the 20th Anniversary of World AIDS Day, November 30th, 2008, this permanent monument was built by the AIDS Monument Committee to commemorate those who have died from the disease, those who live with HIV, those who have cared for people with HIV/AIDS, and the educators and researchers who will one day eradicate it. The memorial is a place where people can reflect, mourn or celebrate the memories of those who have been lost to this cruel disease.