Jim Power started the “mosaic trail” labor day weekend in 1988, and has immortalized New York’s rich history through his captivating street art. It features 80 light poles covered in mosaic tile, ceramics, glass, and mirror paying tribute to the history and the people of New York. The trail runs along 8th Street from Broadway, through Astor place, across Cooper Square in front of cooper union and St. Marks place, from third Ave to Avenue A, down Avenue A to 4th Street, up 4th Street to bowery and back to the cube on 8th street. A typical pole can be made up of more then a thousand tiles, displaying a myriad of vibrantly colorful and intricately placed mosaics which are often themed.

Posted in front of the once and now legendary premier concert venue, The Fillmore East on 6th street at 2nd Ave is an awe-striking pole. This particular pole was made in commemoration of Bill Graham and all the bands that performed there such as, “The Grateful Dead,” “The Allman Brothers Band,” “Pink Floyd,” ”The Band,” and “Black Sabbath” to name a few. A tribute on another pole on the south east corner of second Ave and St Marks is to our great country and another is right in between third Ave and forth street which you will see highlights many great speakers that spoke at cooper union, and last but not least is another to the police and fire department at Astor place.

    Jim was authorized by DOT to continue to build and maintain the light-poles that were destroyed by the anti-graffiti force in 1995, but has never received funding for the project. Due to his love and passion for his community and the arts, Jim has managed throughout the years to build and up-keep these historical landmarks on his own.

    Without the help of our community the chance of raising the $200,000 needed to finish the trail will not be possible. There are over 50 poles that need work at 6-8 weeks each, which is years of work.

    We would like to reach out to the local businesses, residents, and supporters.

With a contribution of a dollar or more you can help us get a step closer to completing this historical trail.

You can donate at: nycjimpower@paypal.com

We would greatly appreciate your contribution in helping complete this magical project.

Our kindest regards.