Anonymous donor lifts bird-art proposal for Tiburon

Sausalito-based artist Nicki Adani is proposing ‘Bird’s Eye View,’ two metal birds soaring atop posts, either as a permanent exhibit near the Tiburon ferry landing, shown in this rendering, or as a temporary exhibit at South of the Knoll Park. Tiburon’s Heritage and Arts Commission has forwarded the proposal to the town’s Parks, Open Space and Trails Commission for review after an anonymous donor pledged up to $68,225 to cover the total cost of installation. (Nicki Adani via town of Tiburon)

Arts commissioners have recommended metal sculptures of two birds in flight as Tiburon’s next public-art project after an anonymous donor pledged up to $68,225 to cover the total cost of installation.

The Heritage and Arts Commission voted unanimously at its June 30 meeting to send the proposal from Sausalito-based painter and sculptor Nicki Adani, titled “Bird’s Eye View,” to the Parks, Open Space and Trails Commission for its consideration. The parks board would have to back the plan before the Town Council ultimately signs off on the project.

The metal birds, with wingspans of 10 feet and 11½ feet, would be depicted in mid-flight and elevated 12-13 feet above the ground on support posts, according to the proposal. The birds’ feathers are open, allowing light to pass through, with the phrases “Be You” and “Fly Free” cut into them. The two birds in the proposal are abstracted birds of prey based on the red-tailed hawk, though Adani previously said final designs would be developed in coordination with the town.

The cost of the installation would range from $52,270 to $68,225 depending on whether it is temporary or permanent and the materials used. Commissioner Jaleh Etemad, who is working with Adani to bring the exhibit to town, said the donor “is going to pay fully for this project whether it is permanent or not.”

Read the complete story in our e-edition, or SUBSCRIBE NOW for home delivery and access to the digital replica.

Comment on this article on Nextdoor.