Dinosaur, the giant pigeon commissioned from Ivan Argote in 2024, will soon leave its spot at the Spur on New York’s High Line to make room for another monumental installation. And a huge crowd gathered for #FarewellDinosaurNYC, the closing event dedicated to this pigeon-shaped sculpture created by the Colombian artist.
Installed as the fourth commission of the High Line Plinth program curated by Cecilia Alemani, Dinosaur transformed one of the most overlooked birds in the urban environment into a monumental, ironic, and perhaps even slightly affectionate presence. An oversized pigeon, it became a symbol of that invisible urban fauna that inhabits cities and that, precisely because of its familiarity, often ends up being ignored. Argote, instead, turned it into an absolute protagonist of the urban skyline.
For its final farewell, the atmosphere was anything but nostalgic. The public showed up in large numbers, often dressed for the occasion, turning the event into a true collective celebration. Artist Miriam Florence led performative moments together with visitors, and there was also a quiz dedicated to the world of pigeons, curated by Megan Marod, which turned the event into a playful and participatory experience for the whole community.
Visualizza questo post su Instagram
The success of Dinosaur says a lot about how contemporary public art can engage with audiences. Far from an elitist approach, the sculpture of Ivan Argote built a direct relationship with New Yorkers, quickly becoming one of the most photographed and shared works on the High Line. The pigeon, often considered ordinary, dirty, or even annoying, transformed into a symbol of urban affection, capable of bringing people together and creating a sense of community.
The High Line Plinth program, created to host large-scale contemporary public artworks, has over the years transformed the Spur into one of the most compelling open-air art destinations in New York. And as Dinosaur leaves the park, attention is already turning to the fifth commission, set to be unveiled this spring, which promises to continue this tradition of monumental and accessible installations.
Read also: London’s Pettman Underpass Fills with Colour
