Audubon’s Aviary
The New-York Historical Society will continue its acclaimed series of
exhibitions celebrating John James Audubon’s legendary original watercolors with “Audubon’s Aviary: Parts Unknown” (Part II of “The Complete Flock”).
The second in a series of three exhibitions will celebrate the New York Historical Society’s unparalleled collection of Audubon’s preparatory watercolors for the sumptuous double-elephant folio print edition of “The Birds of America” (1827-38). The New-York Historical holds all 435 watercolor models for its 435 plates, engraved by Robert Havell, Jr., plus an additional 39 avian watercolors by Audubon. This collection of the works of Audubon is one of the treasures not only of the Society but of New York City itself.
On view from March 21 – May 26, 2014, “Parts Unknown” will feature 132 Audubon watercolors, including “Tricolored Heron,” “Golden Eagle,” and “Atlantic Puffin.” Multi-media installations, featuring audio birdcalls and video footage, will provide a deeper understanding of the connections between art and nature, as well as Audubon’s contributions to American art and history.