I’m finalizing my plans for an artwork using the UN headquarters building as its subject, though of course, changes happen after things are underway. It will involve maybe six photos of it.
The structure itself would be totally anonymous in Manhattan’s skyline were it not, I think, for its placement, that is, separated from the island’s architectural density. The separation is really negative space—probably a hundred yards or so along the north and west exposures (due to First Avenue and a generous setback that I assume exists for security reasons), and a vast amount of space along the south and east (due to the a small park and a notoriously vacant lot, and the full width of the East River respectively). But that amount of air and sky makes it stand out like almost no architectural properties would.
The simple monolithic form is intriguing to me. Its dullness and its reflectivity make me think of how it photographs over times and in varied weather conditions. But somehow I think this work best by being limited to the summer. So let’s see what the season brings over here on the East Side.