As a chronicle of humankind’s impact on our changing world — excessive hunting and fishing, commerce, deforestation — and a record of dwindling biodiversity, The Lost Bird Project memorializes North American birds that have been driven to extinction. The Great Auk, Labrador Duck, Passenger Pigeon, Carolina Parakeet, and Heath Hen were birds that once filled unique niches in the North American landscape from the shores of Labrador and New York to the Midwestern plains. Moved by their stories, American artist Todd McGrain (b. 1961) set out to bring their vanished forms back into the world. Watch a video HERE.
“Todd McGrain’s sculptures not only look majestic and beautiful,” states Cummer Museum Associate Curator Nelda Damiano, “they also prompt us to think about the role we play in protecting and preserving the world we live in.”
A bronze sculpture of each of the five birds has been permanently placed at a specific location related to their decline, from Newfoundland to Florida, Ohio to Martha’s Vineyard. The series on exhibit at the Museum is a set that is touring the country, in the hope of spreading awareness and evoking action. McGrain’s modern, elegant style captures the essence of each species, making it universal and approachable. More importantly, these sculptures ask us not to forget, and remind us of our duty to save fragile habitats and prevent further extinction.
Related Programs:
Talks & Tea: The Lost Bird Project — Nov. 15 from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Members Free, Non-Members $6. Registration required. You are invited to the Museum to enjoy an insightful talk over a cup of tea and a sweet treat, led by Museum Educator Karl Boecklen on The Lost Bird Project. For further information or to register, please call (904) 899-6038.
Art Adventures: The Lost Bird Project! — Feb. 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Members $10, Non-Members $15. Registration required. Join the museum on the third Sat. of each month for studio classes. In this class students will visit the sculpture garden and view Todd McGrain’s The Lost Bird Project, which represents North American birds that have been driven to extinction. Then students will return to the studio and create works that address conservation and nature. Projects will be completed within one class period. Open to children ages 6 through 12. Class size is limited. For further information, please email or call (904) 355-0630.
Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
829 Riverside Avenue
Jacksonville, Florida 32204
(904) 356-6857
Hours of Operation & Admission
Come and partake of the Lost Bird Project’s festivities at the Cummer Museum and don’t forget to contribute to the revitalization of the Gardens.
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