What costs 23 million dollars and contains more than 100 tons of paint?
If you guessed the ceiling of the United Nations, you would be correct!
Some quick facts: It's 16,000 square feet and it took over a year to make. It's made of aluminum and paint to create the colorful icicles.
Something that I think is pretty cool about it is that the artist, Miguel Barcelo, used pigments from all over the world to create it. That seems appropriate for the United Nations, doesn't it? Does that rationalize the 23 million dollar price tag? According to MSNBC, Barcelo also worked with architects, engineers and even particle physics laboratories to develop the extra-strength aluminum for the dome. I love when art comes together with science! They are so closely related, when you think in terms of medium, technique, and development.
I'm personally a huge supporter of public art; I think it enriches the lives of everyone who gets to experience it, regardless of whether they like it or not. Art broadens the mind and heart. Well, it has in my life at least. That being said, I'm sort of glad I don't work under that ceiling because I'd be a little afraid that I'd get a aluminum-paint spike to the head.
I'm a believer in this as well. More works need to be done like this to ensue public trust of works.
ReplyDeletebut you know, unfortunately, some of those UN delegates need an aluminum rod in their heads :)
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