From Common Edge: "Jay-Z's Unseemly Takeover of Brooklyn’s Central Library"

I have a long essay today in Common Edge, headlined Jay-Z's Unseemly Takeover of Brooklyn’s Central Library, with the subheading, "Crowds love 'The Book Of HOV,' but the library’s ceded space for a self-produced Hall of Fame tribute from his company Roc Nation."

From the opening:

Occupying a wedge of land between two major Brooklyn arteries, the landmarked Central Library (1941) of the Brooklyn Public Library is designed to resemble an open book. Since mid-July, the building’s concave limestone facade has been covered by white panels emblazoned with lyrics—decidedly not NSFW—from Brooklyn-born rap superstar, billionaire entrepreneur, and cultural force Jay-Z.

If this vaguely recalls, say, Christo wrapping the Reichstag, the latter’s goal, according to the artist’s biographer, was “revelation through concealment.” This reifies an icon. If a few observers grouse (on social media) about a “darn temple” or “a massive ad for Jay-Z,” most are enthralled by “The Book Of HOV,” a multimedia “tribute exhibition” created by Jay-Z’s company Roc Nation.

Yes, there's reference to the Barclays Center and Jay-Z's role. For the full piece, go here.