15E: Contemporary Art and the New Jersey Turnpike Part II

The Eisenhower Administration pushed for the construction of the New Jersey Turnpike in order to move troops from points-of-call in a fast orderly manner. This need was recognized after the former General of the European Theatre returned from the continent with its small winding roads that were narrow for the equipment of the armed forces. No matter the origins or reasons for the initial building and construction of the New Jersey Turnpike, the contemporary avenues this conduit explores is all-encompassing to our culture within the state of New Jersey and representative of how the face of America has been altered with the criss-crossing lines of roads and super-highways that bring us together. This exhibition, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the New Jersey Turnpike, is presented in conjunction with What Exit? New Jersey and Its Turnpike, at the New Jersey Historical Society, and an off-site, ongoing installation by artist Karen Stone located at the former Hahne’s department store. A second part of this exhibit will be displayed Spring 2002.