Friends of Dag Hammarskjold Plaza

"Borders" Sculpture Exhibit

“Borders” 26 Life-sized Sculptures Grace Park Plaza

Twenty-six androgynous, life-size sculpted human forms are on display at Dag Hammarskjold Plaza. Posed on park benches in seated postures, while others are standing or crouching, the sculptures are the work of Icelandic artist Steinunn Thorarinsdottier. Thirteen are aluminum, and 13, cast iron. The installation will be on view until September 2011.

“Borders” represents the park’s largest exhibition to date and the first exhibition to incorporate the entire park. “This new public art installation will artistically engage a diverse public, foster conversation and provide a significant backdrop for daily events at this public space, the city’s gateway to the UN and a hub of international activity that serves thousands of people and hosts hundreds of political events each year,” said Parks & Recreation Commissioner Adrian Benepe.

The opening ceremony, held March 24 at 5:15 PM, was officiated by the Ambassador of Iceland to the US, Hjalmar W. Hannesson, and other public officials. The Ambassador stood near two crouched sculpture figures on the park’s sculpture platform. The opening ceremony was followed by a reception at the Scandinavia House on Park Avenue.

About the Sculptor

Steinunn Thorarinsdottir was born in Reykjavik, Iceland in 1955. She lived in England and Italy where she received training as a sculptor. Steinunn has exhibited widely in Europe, Japan, USA and Australia for more than twenty years. Her sculpture is held in private, public and corporate collections in many countries. She works in various forms of sculpture and uses many different materials and mediums. Her commissioned works include site specific indoor and outdoor sculptures. She lives and works in Reykjavik, Iceland.