Times Square Telephone Booths Share Immigrants' Stories

"In an era of ubiquitous smartphones, three new telephone booths in New York City's Times Square are a curious draw for the throngs of people who pass by.

"They stop for a double take. They step inside the analog boxes to snap digital selfies.

"But then the phones start ringing. And when they pick up the receiver to answer, that's when the oddity gives way to awe . . . .

"[They hear] the recorded voices of 70 immigrants - from Bangladesh, Gambia, Yemen and other far-flung places around the world - sharing their stories about coming to America.

"It's the brainchild of Afghan-American artist Aman Mojadidi, who has been collecting these stories from New York's five boroughs for his art installation, 'Once Upon a Place.'"

A recent CNN report profile Mr. Mojadidi's art project, which will stay in place until 5 September.

To access the complete CNN report, please visit:

CNN: Phone booths are back in Times Square - and they're telling the story of immigrants (12 JUL 17)