Jazmine Hayes Unveils Four-Part Public Art Commission at Brownsville Multi-Service Center
In Brownsville, Brooklyn, a new multi-service center was opened last month, with a price tag of $128 million. Local artist Jazmine Hayes contributed a public art installation called I Am Protected (2026), which consists of four parts and is displayed at each entrance of the center. Hayes, originally from East New York, designed the artwork to celebrate Brownsville's cultural heritage and motivate local youth. In an interview with Hyperallergic, she shared her desire for every child entering the center to feel safe and supported. The inauguration was attended by Diya Vij, the DCLA commissioner, and Sergio Pardo López, who heads the Percent for Art program, along with Hayes. Previously, Hayes had worked on a project for the Brownsville Houses managed by the NYC Housing Authority.
Key facts
- A $128 million multi-service center opened in Brownsville, Brooklyn, last month.
- The center features a public art commission by local artist Jazmine Hayes.
- Hayes's four-part commission, I Am Protected (2026), is installed at each entryway.
- The commission was made through the Department of Cultural Affairs' Percent for Art program.
- Hayes was born and raised in East New York, adjacent to Brownsville.
- Hayes previously completed a public artwork for NYCHA's Brownsville Houses the year before.
- The unveiling was attended by DCLA commissioner Diya Vij and Percent for Art director Sergio Pardo López.
- Hayes stated she wants children to feel protected and have affirmations of care, support, and community.
Entities
Artists
- Jazmine Hayes
- Diya Vij
- Sergio Pardo López
Institutions
- New York City Department of Cultural Affairs
- Percent for Art
- New York City Housing Authority
- Hyperallergic
Locations
- Brownsville
- Brooklyn
- New York City
- United States
- East New York