An innovative art installation by renowned artist Refik Anadol at the United Nations headquarters utilizes artificial intelligence to raise awareness about the beauty and fragility of the world's coral reefs amid the climate crisis.
The work features abstract forms in green, orange, and white, creating an endless, unique pattern accompanied by ambient music that captivates viewers. The installation occupies a significant wall section in the UN's conference building, facing the Japanese Peace Garden.
Anadol's piece subtly addresses two major global topics discussed at the UN: the climate crisis and the impact of artificial intelligence. AI was employed to gather millions of photographs of coral reefs, many threatened by rising ocean temperatures. The result is a mesmerizing effect that highlights the vulnerability of coral ecosystems, which support 25% of marine life and could nearly vanish by the end of this century.
“I hope 'The Great Model of Nature: Coral' inspires people to see how technology can foster deeper connections with our planet and empower us to work together for a more sustainable world,” Anadol stated during the exhibition's opening.
He was joined by Vilas Dhar, president of the Patrick J. McGovern Foundation, and Melissa Fleming, UN Under-Secretary-General for Global Communications. Dhar remarked, “AI is not just a tool for innovation; it can change how we view our planet, reconnecting us with nature's beauty and fragility in unprecedented ways.”
'The Great Model of Nature: Coral' will be on display at the UN from September 21 to 28, coinciding with the annual gathering of world leaders at the General Assembly and the Future Summit, which addresses critical challenges posed by emerging technologies like AI.