Shuli Sadé presents a new, site-specific augmented reality (AR) installation created for Battery Park City Authority (BPCA). Using her mastery of technology and careful study of BPCA’s commitment to environmental sustainability, Sadé created an innovative, temporal installation that hopes to bridge the potential of technology and bring viewers close to nature in a new way.

Inspired by the global wanderings of humans and nature, “Bird’s-Eye View” (2022) explores migratory birds that inhabit Battery Park City’s gardens and parks. Through AR technology, the site reveals over 30 species of birds that find a temporary or permanent oasis along the southwest coastline of Manhattan. This installation is designed to be easily accessed by individual viewers at a dozen activation locations along the Hudson River, using the Adobe Aero app on their smartphones.

Behind the origin of this project is the wish to share the discovery of the incredible bird species that migrate to Battery Park City. There are similarities between birds’ navigation and the geolocation technology used to experience augmented reality. Birds’ navigational systems are still unresolved puzzles scientists aim to understand: whether it is the magnet in the Mourning Dove beak which pulls the bird towards the direction of the poles in time of migrations and birding, or shifts in climate and food which organizes huge bird flocks to get from one place to another.

Shuli Sadé

An artist talk between Shuli Sadé and Mary Miss (co-creator of Battery Park City’s South Cove), will take place Friday, May 6 at 6pm at the northwest corner of South Cove.

To learn more, visit bpca.ny.gov.