How Did a Cabin With a Smoking Chimney End Up In the Middle of Manhattan?

Mark Reigelman II’s latest art installation will have New Yorkers smiling as he adds whimsy to the city’s busy, bustling life with “Smökers.” Inspired by small hand-made German objects (Räuchermann), the artist, a New Yorker himself, replaces the commonly seen orange steam tubes set above manholes with a monochromatic cabin complete with a chimney to funnel the steam out. The wooden structure was constructed on top of 4 inch casters and hovered an inch above the ground allowing Reigelman to easily wheel it into place above three different manholes in Central Manhattan. The quirky mobile project offers a different perspective in viewing the urban landscape that brings a much needed dose of whimsy and interest to everyday life.