video transcript

One thousand pieces of Plexiglas, intricately designed to form this mosaic. An icon dominating the skyline of New York, this water tower has been transformed into a work of art. Behind it is artist Tom Fruin, who wanted to capture the essence of the city in his design. SOUNDBITE: Tom Fruin, artist, saying (English) "It seemed like a ubiquitous structure that is everywhere, very kind of humble and overlooked, sort of silently sitting on top of all the buildings. I wanted to kind of highlight it because I think that they're beautiful. I think that they've interesting shapes." The work simply titled "water tower" was built by Fruin from scratch using scrap materials that he found in different neighborhoods. SOUNDBITE: Tom Fruin, artist, saying (English) "There is so much excess in New York, you know. Also it helped to dictate its colors for me so I didn't have to make too many choices. When you just get what is given to you, it reflects the surroundings." Blending in with the city's other historic landmarks the work can be seen from miles away. Right now the sculpture is in a landmark-protected neighborhood where permanent alterations are forbidden - so it will only color the city's skyline for another year. Elly Park, Reuters, New York.