Artist Jason Polan Dies at 37, Leaving Unfinished 'Every Person in New York' Project

Jason Polan, the American artist known for his ambitious project to draw every person in New York, has died at age 37 due to illness. Born in Franklin, Michigan, Polan earned a double degree in anthropology, art, and design in 2004 before moving to New York. He produced over 3,000 sketches, which were compiled into the book 'Every Person in New York, Volume 1'. In 2005, he founded the Taco Bell Drawing Club, a group that met outside Union Square in Manhattan to draw together. Another major project was 'Every Piece of Art in the Museum of Modern Art', where he aimed to sketch everything on display at MoMA, including staff, visitors, and director Glenn Lowry. His work was characterized by a drive for documentation and social inclusion.