1. Home
  2. Agencies and Departments
  3. MTA Arts & Design
  4. A Trip Up the Bronx River

A Trip Up the Bronx River

174 St (2/5)

A Trip Up the Bronx River

Daniel Del Valle
Artwork in faceted glass by Daniel del Valle showing a small group of figures canoeing passing by flowers and animals.
“A Trip Up the Bronx River” (2004) by Daniel Del Valle at NYCT 174 St Station. Photo: Rob Wilson

About the Project

“A Trip Up the Bronx River” consists of ten faceted glass panels that depict a small group canoeing upstream and visiting such famous sites as the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden. En route, the party passes various neighborhoods, filled with color, pattern, and activity. For this work, the artist Daniel Del Valle also presents typical activities in which the community participates, such as a street festival, mask-making, and the planting of new trees. Representations of flowers can be found in the station window niches, as "simple reflections of nature that surrounds us," according to Del Valle. "Even though not everyone can take this magical trip up the river to view these sites, the 2 and 5 trains can provide people easy access to travel to these locations." 

About the Artist

Daniel Del Valle grew up in the South Bronx, studied painting in Paris and Italy and received his BFA from the Parsons School of Design back in New York City. After completing his studies, Del Valle continued to balance his artistic practice in the Bronx with his interest in travel. After visiting Mexico City and seeing the monumental murals of Diego Rivera and the colorful architecture there, Del Valle’s influences became more focused on Caribbean artists working in the Bronx. Since then, Del Valle has continued to explore new ideas and changing styles, though often returning to the illustrative roots of his arts education. Del Valle has exhibited in many one-person and group shows, and he has been the recipient of several prestigious awards and fellowships.