STRAPHANGERS GET SOL

The Columbus Circle station at 59th Street has been brightened up with a rainbow of colored porcelain tiles, which were installed to celebrate artist Sol LeWitt’s 82nd birthday.

LeWitt rose to fame during the late 1960s with a series of wall paintings that were part of an effort to break free from the limitations of canvas.

“LeWitt’s genius comes through in this artwork, which is a major work of precision with its curves and bands in vibrant color that completely fills the space. It will become a landmark and is a great tribute to one of our major artists,” said MTA Chairman H. Dale Hemmerdinger.

The artwork by the late LeWitt is part of a larger MTA project for the Columbus Circle station, which is expected to be complete by March 2010. Other planned renovations include new flooring, lighting, a passenger restroom and a retail arcade.