The Return of Spring/The Onset of Winter

2005 Times Square – 42nd Street (A, C, E, N, Q, R, S,1, 2, 3, 7) New York City Transit

Jack Beal uses classical mythology to comment on the relationship between what is above and below the surface — an apt metaphor for the subway. The work consists of two large mosaic panels that illustrate the mythological character Persephone. Instead of fasting, she ate a pomegranate; as punishment, she was banished underground for six months of the year. However, she is permitted to spend six months above ground on earth with her mother. In mythology, the periods above and below ground were the beginning of seasons, which Beal uses in his titles. Beal finds universality in the myth and brings it to life in a place filled with movement and purpose, bringing beauty underground.