Earlier this week The Garment District Alliance unveiled “Iceberg,” an immersive art installation on the Broadway pedestrian plazas along Broadway from West 37th to 38th Streets. Created by ATOMIC3 & Appareil Architecture, in collaboration with Jean-Sébastien Côté and Philippe Jean, the installation allows the public to generate a light and sound show as they pass through the metal arches of the installation, which react to the pace of each participant by turning different colors. But there’s more to it than pretty lights—the installation also carries an environmental message.
The arches are divided into three tunnels representing different stages of the iceberg’s life, from its calving into Arctic waters to its final melting near the warm waters of a coast inhabited by humans. Each of the metallic arches produces a distinct sound. Arranged as a tunnel, the arches invite visitors to enter, listen to and play the giant “organ.” Human activity “warms up” the ice monuments and transforms their original nature—just like climate change.
“This is an astonishing installation that transforms Broadway into a gleaming, interactive experience for pedestrians, while reinforcing an important environmental message,” said Barbara A. Blair, president of the Garment District Alliance, in a statement. “Iceberg is a thought-provoking yet playful piece that serves as a profound reminder of the seriousness of climate change. As a neighborhood that is committed to showcasing talented artists both locally and from around the world, we are proud to welcome to the Garment District and we encourage local New Yorkers and travelers to visit and fully immerse themselves in this experience.”
A version of “Iceberg” was first presented as part of the 3rd edition of Luminothérapie at the Place des Festivals in the Quartier des Spectacles in Montreal in 2012. “Iceberg” is free and part of the year-round public art program, Garment District on the Plazas. It will be open to the public through February 24th.
All photos courtesy of Alex Ayer/Diversity Pics