Unveiling: Friends from the Canal
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
7:00pm – 9:00pm
Unveiling: Friends from the Canal
Tuesday, April 21, 7–9 pm
Gowanus, Brooklyn
Join us for the debut of Friends from the Canal, the latest public design project for our Common Build initiative.
Created by artist duo Mookntaka, this multi-site installation features three inflatable, illuminated sculptures that serve as a friendly welcome to Gowanus. These three “cheerful mutants” — known as Loofa, Pebbles, and Shelby — are inspired by the canal’s aquatic fauna. Placed outside at three locations in Gowanus, the Friends create moments of play in unexpected places.
Join us for a walking tour and lighting ceremony of the Friends, followed by a reception at Van Alen Institute. We encourage you to embrace your sense of play with colorful attire!
Event Schedule
- 7 pm: Remarks and first lighting ceremony
- 7:40 pm: Walking tour
- 8:20 pm: Reception at Van Alen Institute
About Mookntaka
Mookntaka (MOO-kin-tah-kah) is a Brooklyn-based artist duo by Mark Zlotsky and Karyn Lao. The moniker is a combination of their names through the voice of their then two-year-old niece: Uncle Mark and Auntie Karyn. Mookntaka believes in art that encourages people of all ages to connect through play. Utilizing mediums associated with arts-and-crafts, rudimentary shapes, and lively colors, Mookntaka designs interactive moments that bring people together. Mookntaka embodies the wonder and whimsical lens we investigate our surroundings with. It serves as a reminder to themselves and others to find joy in unexpected places and embrace the silliness and curiosity of our inner child. Learn more at mookntaka.com.
Friends from the Canal is produced by Van Alen Institute and made possible by a Public Realm Grant for Commercial District Lighting awarded through the NYC Department of Small Business Services; public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs in partnership with the City Council; and by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.