Cosima von Bonin

Cosima von Bonin

Cosima von Bonin brings her ongoing work WHAT IF THEY BARK? to the High Line this September, installing a group of anthropomorphic fish sculptures above the park’s iconic 10th Avenue Square. Assembled like a military band ensemble, the fish wear clothes, play musical instruments, and hold checkered missiles. Featured this past year on the façade of the Central Pavilion at the Venice Biennale, von Bonin’s installation continues the artist’s long-running interest in marine life. This humorous composition recalls the statue arrangement of ancient Greek temples, but instead of gods and heroes, here the artist places sea creatures on land interacting with one another and doing human activities such as playing music. The figures adorn the top of the railing of the Sunken Overlook as if playing a concert for visitors resting on the seating steps below, adding a playful element to the striking view up 10th Avenue.