Meet Norman Kirby: Creator of Fence Art in Jersey City

Norman Kirby, an artist based in Jersey City, is known for his unique and eye-catching fence art installations. These installations, often found around Jersey City, utilize intricate designs on chain-link fences, sparking conversation and bringing joy to those who encounter them. Kirby's approach to art is distinct, using the city itself as a wide-reaching canvas without damaging or defacing property. His work is constructed using eco-friendly, recycled fabric, dyed to various colors, and reused to create positive impacts in the community. The fabric characters in his art are often depicted dancing, playing instruments, or engaged in other lively activities. Norman Kirby moved to Jersey City in 2009, seeking a community that would inspire his creativity. He found this inspiration in what he describes as Chilltown, recognizing the city as a cultural hub with creativity in various forms, including visual art, music, dance, and theater. For almost six years, Kirby has worked at Mana Contemporary, a prominent art institution in Jersey City, serving as an artist assistant for contemporary artist Stanley Casselman. Beyond his fence art, Kirby's artistic repertoire includes wire sculptures, ink drawings, woodburning, glass etchings, acrylic paintings, paper cut-outs, and murals. Despite his diverse artistic skills, art was not Kirby's initial passion. He initially pursued a physical education degree at East Stroudsburg University. However, after his first year, he realized his true calling and transferred to Rutgers University to dedicate himself to art. The concept of fence art originated from Kirby's desire to create beautiful public art that would not be considered vandalism and could be easily removed if necessary. He aimed to transform basic wire fences into sources of cheer for passersby, covering nearly every neighborhood in Jersey City with his installations. Kirby undertakes these projects purely for fun and to spread happiness, without seeking payment or special acknowledgment. The durability of the fabric ensures his creations endure through all seasons. A notable project involved a large-scale installation covering three sides of the historic Hudson and Manhattan Railroad Powerhouse in downtown Jersey City. This installation featured quotes like “JC Livin,” an elephant, a unicorn, dancers, musicians, and a bouquet of flowers. In recognition of his contributions, Kirby received an award for public art from the Jersey City Arts Council in 2018. For aspiring artists, Kirby advises regular attendance at art shows and active participation in open calls for art shows. He acknowledges the difficulty of being a full-time artist and emphasizes the importance of securing jobs within the art industry. Before becoming an artist assistant, he worked at a frame shop in downtown Jersey City, acquiring framing skills that proved valuable to his artistic career. Kirby also has plans to open his own framing shop in McGinley Square in the future. His fence art installations are celebrated for their ability to evoke smiles, convey messages of happiness, creativity, and togetherness, and contribute to the special community spirit of Jersey City through selfless acts of kindness. #NormanKirby #FenceArt #JerseyCity #PublicArt #LocalArtist #ArtInstallations #EcoFriendlyArt #CommunityArt #CreativeExpression #NormanKirby #FenceArt #JerseyCity #PublicArt #LocalArtist #ArtInstallations #EcoFriendlyArt #CommunityArt #CreativeExpression