Media Opportunity on Sept. 27 with Artist Alan Sonfist in the Meadow as Part of Land Art Forward Installation

The Parrish Art Museum is pleased to announce the initiation of Alan Sonfist’s site-specific land art installation in the Museum’s Meadow.

• Commissioned by the Parrish and conceived specifically by land art pioneer Alan Sonfist, the project titled Celestial Meadow, is slated for completion in 2026.
• This two-year journey of environmental rehabilitation and artistic exploration begins first with the environmental rehabilitation of the site, with its “ground-breaking” on September 27, 2024.
• A celestial-themed, plant-based design will mirror star configurations in the skies over the Parrish.

WHAT:
Artist Alan Sonfist is creating Celestial Meadow, a site-specific art installation in the Museum’s front Meadow. This two-year project will feature native plantings inspired by astral constellations visible above the Museum. The pattern and colors of the native flora to be planted will mirror the pattern and colors of the stars—ranging from warm blues to vibrant yellows and reds. This installation aims to create a harmonious connection between the celestial and terrestrial, offering a contemporary reflection on the intersection of art and environmental stewardship.

To launch this Land Art Forward installation, the site will undergo necessary ecological restoration to prepare for the native flora. This involves implementing eco-friendly methods to create a suitable environment for growth. An eco-friendly tarp will cover the field and eliminate the invasive species.

After one year, holes will be cut into the tarp, and seeds of native wildflowers will be planted in a pattern reflecting the star constellation above the Museum grounds. Over time, the native flora will grow through the tarp and be in full bloom by Summer 2026, blending environmental restoration with celestial design. Ultimately, Celestial Meadow will be part of a larger exhibition on ecology at the Parrish in 2026.

The project kicks off on September 27, 2024, with Sonfist and local Hayground School children beginning the Meadow’s transformation. The special kick-off event offers photo and video opportunities, along with interviews with celebrated environmental and earth artist Alan Sonfist.

WHEN:
Friday, September 27, 2024, at 10:00 AM

WHERE:
Parrish Art Museum, 279 Montauk Highway, Water Mill, NY | In the South Meadow at the Museum.

MEDIA OPPORTUNITIES:
• Photography and video of the event, including participation of Hayground School children in the planting process.
• Interviews with Alan Sonfist.

RSVP/CONTACT:
Melanie Tolan | parrishart.org
T 631-283-2118 x 124
C 917-837-6933