Our Story

FIGMENT is a forum for the creation and display of participatory and interactive art by emerging artists across disciplines. FIGMENT began in July 2007 as a free, one-day participatory arts event on Governors Island in New York Harbor with over 2,600 participants. Since then, FIGMENT has grown significantly each year in number of projects, duration, participants, volunteers, fundraising capability, exhibitions, locations, overall level of commitment and participation, and public support.

2011 marks the fourth summer that FIGMENT will create a free, artist-designed minigolf course on Governors Island. The course has been a huge success, in constant use throughout the entire season and loved by visitors of all ages. It is estimated that last year, over 200,000 people visited FIGMENT Terrace, which includes the minigolf course. This year, FIGMENT plans to start over again with a majority of new holes. The course will be free and open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays while the island is open from May 27th to September 25th.

This year's course will have 14 holes inspired by the theme, "BUGS and FEATURES." FIGMENT is giving its own participatory, free and inspired twist to the unknown and fascinating world of bugs of both the creepy crawly and the technological variety. The FIGMENT Minigolf Course wishes to share our fascination by the way that bugs make our skin crawl, but at the same time live among us symbiotically, and can be helpful in keeping our world in balance. We hope to provide a place for wonder and dialogue, and an environment where man and bug can putt away in harmony.

The Impact

Hundreds of thousands of people enjoy the free FIGMENT minigolf course on Governors Island each year, and we rely entirely on donations from the community in order to fund it. 

Donations to the FIGMENT Minigolf Course are tax deductible to the full extent of the law. FIGMENT is organized under FIGMENT Project, Inc., a New York based 501(c)(3) corporation.

What We Need & What You Get

FIGMENT is 100% free and volunteer run and accepts NO advertising or corporate sponsors. We rely entirely on donations and foundation support for our modest budget. Our amazing artists receive no fees. They donate their designs, labor and time. The money you donate goes toward materials to construct the holes, security, insurance and signage. 

Other Ways You Can Help

#5: Donate!  FIGMENT is largely funded through the generosity of people like you.

#4: Volunteer!  We are a 100% volunteer driven-organization. Join us!

#3: Tell your friends! Help spread the word about FIGMENT, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

#2: Come to FIGMENT weekend! Bring your art! Decorate your bike, wear a costume, grab a hula hoop...whatever it is you do, bring it to FIGMENT!  

#1: Come play! The FIGMENT Minigolf Course is open from May 27th through September 25th, 2011. Grab your friends and come join us!