Public programs on the high line

This study examined the underlying principles and decision-making processes that guided the creation of public programs at the High Line, a linear park and public space in New York City. To explore these underlying principles, three individuals who had the most influence on programming the first formative years of the High Line, were interviewed, Danya Sherman–Former Director of Programs, Education & Community Engagement; Emily Pinkowitz–Deputy Director of Programs & Education; and Abby Ehrlich–Director of Parks Programming at Battery Park City Parks Conservancy and Founding Play Environment & Program Consultant for Friends of the High Line. Emerging from the interviews were five underlying principles that had great influence on the High Line’s public programs: (a) a Commitment to Create a Welcoming Environment; (b) the Acknowledgement of the Significance of Audience Development; (c) a Dedication to High Standards in Programming; (d) the Recognition of a Unique Space; and (e) Acknowledging Future Growth Opportunities and Improvements. Final conclusions result in the recognition of how these five principles contribute to our understandings regarding the development of art education within community settings.