FLATBUSH — The Brooklyn Public Library and Brooklyn Museum hosted a block party on Thursday to celebrate Carnival outside the Cortelyou branch.
In honor of Caribbean American Heritage Month, the museum’s Museum on Wheels featured performers, stilt walkers, music and more. Open since 1983, the Cortelyou Library is part of the BPL’s extensive system of 62 branches.
Mural making at Cortelyou Library. Photo: Gregg Richards
Inside Out, the world’s largest participatory art initiative created by artist JR, was part of the celebration with a mobile photobooth. The photos were turned into a mural and displayed on the exterior walls of Cortelyou Library. The mural, which will remain on view for several weeks, intends to spark conversation and collaboration.
“This stop is a reflection of everything the Museum on Wheels is about — showing up for our Brooklyn community through an afternoon of fun, artistic expression and cultural celebration,” said Laval Bryant-Quigley, director of community engagement and partnerships at the Brooklyn Museum.
“Our partnerships with local organizations are what make the Museum on Wheels possible, and we are deeply appreciative of Brooklyn Public Library’s collaboration in bringing this event to life.”
Mural making at Cortelyou Library. Photo: Gregg Richards
“We’re grateful to Brooklyn Museum for bringing this celebration to Cortelyou Library and for creating such a joyful opportunity for our community to come together,” said Linda E. Johnson, president and CEO of Brooklyn Public Library.
“From the performances and activities to the spectacular mural by JR’s Inside Out project, the event celebrated the creativity, culture and neighborhood spirit that make Brooklyn so special.”
Participants also enjoyed Carnival performances, mask- and headdress-making activities, movement and wellness workshops, games and bubble demonstrations. The event featured tours and pop-up talks with artist Christopher Myers, who recently created a new mosaic at the nearby Church Avenue subway station.
Island Pops, a Brooklyn-based shop serving Caribbean-inspired ice cream and sorbet, generously provided free ice pops to attendees. The business is a past winner of the Brooklyn Public Library’s PowerUP! business competition.