BEYOND THE SURFACE
HISTORY BOOK
BEYOND THE SURFACE
HISTORY BOOK
The book is an artistic and reflective analysis of New York City’s manholes, combining physical form with an emotional and symbolic approach. It will encourage readers to rethink what is beneath their feet and the surface of their lives that we sometimes forget its existence as we live busy lives, helping them develop their powers of observation and awareness. In doing so, they can create new worlds of their own, just as I have done through my daily observations.
A5
Laser and Inkjet printer
An interactive archival website featuring 55 NYC manholes, where users can explore designs, coordinates, and stories. With five pages and a card-matching game, users can engage with manhole patterns in playful, dynamic ways.
Link
© 2026 Seo Yeon (Kelly) Kim