On the High Line, Buddha Is the New Giant Pigeon

"We had an event for National Pigeon Appreciation Day, occasioned by a giant, hyperrealistic statue of the bird, called 'Dinosaur.' More than five thousand attended the appreciation, donning pigeon drag, pummelling a pigeon piñata, and showing off their pigeon pets, diapers, 'flight suits,' and all."

"'Dinosaur' was such a success that seven thousand petitioners tried to block its removal. Everyone was very sad, but then they fall in love with the next one."

"On the way here, I wondered what all the traffic was about; then I realized it was us! The park had the air of a stage before showtime."

Cecilia Alemani, chief curator at the High Line, introduced a giant pigeon statue named 'Dinosaur' that became a beloved symbol for New Yorkers. The statue was celebrated during National Pigeon Appreciation Day, attracting over five thousand attendees. Following its success, a new installation, a fifty-ton Buddha by Tuan Andrew Nguyen, was welcomed at the Spur. Alemani's enthusiasm for public art and community engagement is evident as she captures moments of joy and connection through these installations.

Read at The New Yorker