The abstract green, orange and white shapes flow in and out of each other in an endless, never-repeating pattern, combined with the ambient music creating a hypnotic effect on those who stare at it for too long (like this writer).
It was difficult for delegates at the Summit Week and Summit of the Future miss Large nature model: Coral. The artwork covers an entire section of wall in the ground floor hallway of the United Nations Headquarters Conference building, opposite the Japanese Peace Garden.
But beyond grabbing attention, the artist behind the piece cleverly draws attention to two important global issues being discussed at the United Nations during the busiest week of the year: the climate crisis and the impact of artificial intelligence.
Enchanting Message
AI has been used to assemble millions of images of coral reefs, many of which are under threat from rising ocean temperatures. The effect on viewers is both mesmerizing and profound, given the context: coral reef ecosystems are among the most vulnerable on the planet to climate change.
These underwater cities, which support 25 percent of marine life, could disappear completely by the end of this century.
“I hope that Large Nature Model: Coral “To inspire people to see how technology can foster a deeper connection with our planet and empower us to work together towards a more sustainable world,” Anadol said at the launch.
He was joined by Vilas Dhar, President of the Patrick J McGovern Foundation – a charity dedicated to developing data science and artificial intelligence solutions for all – and Melissa Fleming, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations for Global Communications, whose department co-organized the exhibition.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres (front) visits the AI artwork exhibition “Big Nature Model: Coral” by Refik Anadol at the United Nations Headquarters.
“AI is not just a tool for innovation – it is a force that can reshape the way we see our planet, reconnecting us with the beauty and fragility of nature in ways never before possible. Refik Anadol’s stunning vision allows us to use technology to engage our senses and create a deeper emotional connection with our natural world,” said Dhar.
The Big Nature: Coral will be on display at the United Nations headquarters from September 21 to 28, coinciding with the annual meeting of world leaders and the Future Summit. The summit, which takes place from September 22 to 23, focuses on strengthening multilateralism and addressing key challenges and opportunities, including those presented by new and emerging technologies such as AI.
Exhibition of AI artwork “Big Nature Model: Coral” by Refik Anadol at the United Nations Headquarters.
