The Facts
On August 28, 2026, High Line Art announced that artist Kathleen Ryan has been invited to submit a proposal for the seventh and eighth High Line Plinth commissions, to be installed in 2029 and 2030 in New York. Ryan was nominated among 62 artists by an international advisory committee of artists, curators, and arts professionals convened by High Line Art. Her proposal includes the sculpture "Red Delicious," a monumental apple core with a glossy red exterior and a luminous interior of abalone shell, crystals, and stone, referencing the fruit's layered symbolism as an emblem of New York City, desire, and consumption. The public can submit feedback on proposals online by September 8, 2026, with comments shared with the curatorial team to help inform the selection, and a shortlist of finalists will be chosen in fall 2026.
The Signal
This nomination marks a significant public art opportunity for Ryan, whose work often transforms everyday objects into intricate, materially rich sculptures that critique consumer culture and desire. Securing a High Line Plinth commission would elevate her standing among major public art practitioners in New York, potentially increasing collector interest in her studio work. The selection process, which incorporates public feedback, reflects an institutional strategy to engage community input in curatorial decisions, a growing trend among public art programs. For collectors, Ryan's inclusion signals her growing institutional footprint and the value of her distinctive material practice.
- Artists: Kathleen Ryan
- Galleries: Gagosian
- Locations: New York
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