Most iconographic statues have controversial pasts. Flipside focuses on the lion statues outside the New York Public Library Main Branch and tells controversial yet unspoken stories about the statues, the architecture, the building name; by utilizing dialectic models of design and juxtaposition in curation and content. All the project elements are designed as question phrases to encourage the audience to think critically while remaining neutral.

There is a need for greater critical thinking and self–reflection about iconic monuments, particularly in light of our current monument debate and public engagement in controversy. The use of dialectic models of design and juxtaposition in curation and content can provide context, perspective, and deeper reflection in the visitor, towards activating well-informed and critical social engagement in controversies currently reshaping the messaging of our society.

Belly of the Lions area introduces the controversial historical figures who founded the library. The lion caseworks are designed to look as if sliced in half: gold and holographic. There are objects about each topic on both sides, creating a timeline for the subject. At the central axis, there is a mirror. From each side, there is the illusion that what you see becomes the entirety of the casework. On the holographic side, the outer glass is actually a transparent LED display that overlays visuals.

Dirty Money area introduces Stephen A. Schwarzman since the building was named after him due to his $100 million donation to the library. Stylistically, each casework juxtaposes items that indicate his generous philanthropic efforts along with objects that highlight more controversial parts of his background. The library neutrally and factually displays information about him, disregarding any preconceived notions.

Beaux–Arts & Crafts area introduces Beaux–Arts architectural style and its socio–cultural connotations such as racism and elitism, through sculptural items looking as if two oversized lions facing each other were visually deconstructed. There are different sculptural elements, each focusing on a different subject. Each structure has four layers within its design. The first layer shows the library’s mission statement, the second layer displays a provocative question on topic, the third layer introduces an activity in which artifacts are displayed across a motion–activated mirror surface, and the fourth layer showcases the library’s statement regarding the topic. 

You don’t look like a librarian! concept area introduces librarianship, librarian stereotypes, and how librarian identities are depicted in media and popular culture. This area is visually similar to the previous concept area.

Graphic elements are based on the materiality of the exhibition. Some subway benches are wrapped in gold, with a provocative question about the subway system written in holographic letters, along with the library logo. One of the Times Square screens televises a compelling question about Times Square in holographic letters on a gold background, along with the library logo, inviting potential visitors to the venue.