Through ARTiSTORY's partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the Mandai Wildlife Reserve launched an innovative location-based event titled "Take Flight with Museum of Fine Arts, Boston × Audubon" on May 19, 2023.
This collaborative project brings together art and nature, featuring installations inspired by John James Audubon's renowned bird illustrations from "The Birds of America." The launch coincided with the opening of the new Bird Paradise at Mandai Wildlife Reserve in Singapore.
Mandai Wildlife Reserve aims to deepen its commitment to environmental preservation, ethical stewardship of the planet, and sustainability. By hosting this art installation, Mandai provides visitors with a unique opportunity to appreciate the beauty of avian life through a historical and artistic lens, aligning with their mission to educate and inspire conservation efforts.
ARTiSTORY's partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston (MFA) plays a crucial role in this collaboration. The MFA's well-preserved collection of Audubon's illustrations serves as the foundation for the art installations. By sharing these valuable artworks, the MFA extends its cultural influence beyond its physical walls, allowing a wider audience to engage with and learn from these historical masterpieces in a new, immersive context.
The primary artifact featured in this installation is John James Audubon's "The Birds of America." This monumental work, created in the early 19th century, is considered one of the most significant ornithological works ever produced. Audubon's detailed and life-sized illustrations of North American birds are renowned for their artistic quality and scientific accuracy. The installation brings these illustrations to life through various interactive and innovative displays, including hand-crafted paper birds and large see-through eggs showcasing species found in Bird Paradise.
The final product of this collaboration is a series of immersive art installations spread across the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, near the new Bird Paradise. These installations include:
These installations offer visitors a unique blend of art, nature, and education, creating an engaging experience that celebrates both the historical significance of Audubon's work and the ongoing importance of bird conservation. While a specific collection name isn't mentioned, the overall theme "Take Flight with Museum of Fine Arts, Boston × Audubon" encapsulates the essence of this collaborative project.