Urban Wildlife in Art: Argote's Colossal Pigeon Sculpture Lands in NYC 3k5g28

This autumn, New York City will welcome a new 16-foot-tall hyperrealist aluminium sculpture of a pigeon, titled Dinosaur, by Iván Argote on the High Line Plinth. The Bogotá-born, Paris-based artist’s work will perch above Tenth Avenue, adding a unique and thought-provoking piece to the city’s urban landscape. Set to be unveiled in October 2024, Argote’s sculpture pays homage to the humble pigeon, a bird that has thrived in New York since European settlers brought it in the 17th century. With a population exceeding that of the city’s humans, pigeons are a familiar sight on its streets. The title Dinosaur nods to the pigeon’s prehistoric ancestors and draws a parallel between the once-dominant dinosaurs and modern-day humans. Cecilia Alemani, director and chief curator of High Line Art, praises Argote’s ability to transform the mundane into the extraordinary, adding a critical yet humorous perspective to public art. Argote’s work often critiques conventional monuments while celebrating overlooked urban elements. His past projects include documenting the removal of colonial statues and creating planters resembling historical monuments. Dinosaur will be the fourth commission for the High Line Plinth, following works by Pamela Rosenkranz, Simone Leigh, and Sam Durant. As Argote’s colossal pigeon takes its place, it will undoubtedly spark conversations about its significance and impact—testament to the enduring spirit and adaptability of New York City and its residents.