Friends from the Canal
This work is part of Common Build, a multi-project initiative; learn more about it here.
Contents 
Coming in Spring 2026! Created by artist duo Mookntaka, these inflatable, illuminated sculptures will be a playful welcome to Gowanus.
About
Created by local artist duo Mookntaka, Friends from the Canal is a multi-site public art installation coming to Gowanus in Spring 2026. These inflatable, character-driven sculptures are inspired by the aquatic fauna of the Gowanus and will serve as friendly neighborhood ambassadors. Designed to make Gowanus’ public spaces feel more welcoming to all, they will playfully greet residents by day and radiate soft light after sundown.
Mookntaka was selected through an open call held in Fall 2025, and chosen by a committee of local residents and community leaders in collaboration with Van Alen Institute.
Friends from the Canal is made possible by a $100,000 Public Realm Grant for Commercial District Lighting awarded through the NYC Department of Small Business Services.
Selection Committee
Zaxx Abraham
Project Manager, Neighborhood Planning, NYC Department of Small Business Services
Sam Alison-Mayne
Co-Founder, Tankhouse
Tiffany Baker
Artist
Francesca Bastianini
Co-Founder and Principal, Sighte Studio
Emily C. Bell
Communications & Outreach Senior Manager, Gowanus Canal Conservancy
Rose Jefferson
Community Advocate and Educator
Jonathan Molloy
Senior Associate, SO–IL
Saloni Sharma
Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Le Roi Capital
Johnny Thornton
Executive Director, Arts Gowanus
Timeline
Jul – Aug 2025
Open Call
110 artists and designers responded to the Open Call.
Sep – Oct 2025
Request for Proposals
Three shortlisted artists/designers were chosen by a committee of local residents and community leaders, and asked to create a proposal. Each shortlisted participant received $2,000 upon submission of their proposal.
Oct – Nov 2025
Winner Selected
The winning proposal was selected by a committee of local residents and community leaders. The winning designer received a $23,000 fee for development and delivery of the project.
Dec 2025 – Mar 2026
Production and Fabrication
The winning design will be awarded $75,000 for direct expenses of the project’s production, fabrication, and installation.
Mar 2026 – Feb 2027
Display Period
The project will be on display for up to 11 months.
Program Manager
Shiloah Coley
Program Manager
Related Projects
The Dear Neighbor Project
