The New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center houses one of the world’s most extensive collections of resource materials on theater, dance, music, and the performing arts. Of particular renown is the Library’s collection of non-book materials, such as historic recordings, videotapes, autographed manuscripts, sheet music, stage designs, press clippings, programs, posters, and photographs. These invaluable resources are available to the public, free of charge, as are the Library’s special programs, including exhibitions, seminars, and performances.

Poulin + Morris designed a comprehensive environmental graphics, donor recognition, and wayfinding sign program for the 140,000 square feet of newly renovated interior space consisting of public reading rooms, galleries, auditorium, and preservation lab. The program relies on bold color, large-scale typography, and iconographic images from the Library’s collections. One major component is a wall mural that spirals up a 5-story primary circulation staircase and serves as a vehicle for visual wayfinding, as well as a celebration of the performing arts.

The project was recognized by the Society for Environmental Graphic Design (SEGD) for Design Excellence in Environmental Graphic Design.