Land Art: From Prada Marfa to Seven Magic Mountains

Art Production Fund’s Kathleen Lynch talks about what it’s like to be Director of Operations at New York’s leading nonprofit commissioning large-scale public artworks that you’d most likely recognize. The non-profit has made marks around the U.S. dedicated to commissioning and producing ambitious public art projects, from Prada Marfa to Seven Magic Mountains, reaching new audiences and expanding awareness through contemporary art. This month, the director and her team will be executed artist Maurice Harris’ public presentation on view now at Rockefeller Center until November 20.

What has been one of the most memorable projects you have worked on through Art Production Fund?

I feel really privileged to have worked with so many renowned artists over the years. This past summer’s public installation by Sanford Biggers at Rockefeller Center is one I will never forget. In 2017, Sanford invited us to his Harlem studio to discuss his work and his dream public projects. Four years later we installed his 25-foot tall bronze sculpture “Oracle” at Rockefeller Center, as well as several other public activations throughout the location. It is so satisfying to make these projects happen after many years of conversation!

What tends to be the biggest challenge when working on large scale productions?

Ambitious projects can take a long time! Securing the location, the funding, and coordinating the fabrication of these major installations can take years. But in the end it’s even more satisfying to see the projects come to life and totally worth the wait!

Do you find that the evolution of social media has played a role in the appreciation of public art over the past few years?

I feel really privileged to have worked with so many renowned artists over the years. This past summer’s public installation by Sanford Biggers at Rockefeller Center is one I will never forget. In 2017, Sanford invited us to his Harlem studio to discuss his work and his dream public projects. Four years later we installed his 25-foot tall bronze sculpture “Oracle” at Rockefeller Center, as well as several other public activations throughout the location. It is so satisfying to make these projects happen after many years of conversation!

How long have you been doing the APF gala?

We started hosting our annual gala in 2010 as a way to raise necessary funds for our mission. It’s such a fun and glamorous night and we look forward to it all year! Our most recent gala honoring Sarah Hoover and Tom Sachs was such an unforgettable night that I wish I could relive!

Prada Marfa in 2005, became a sensational destination with people travelling from all over the world to get a glimpse. What do you think made this installation so special to people?

Prada Marfa by Elmgreen & Dragset is so special because it is such a pure example of public art. Prada Marfa is located in Valentine, TX on a beautiful stretch of ranch land and is completely unexpected. I remember the first time I visited I felt like I was dreaming! Whether you discover the project by chance or if it’s part of your road trip, it’s such a special and unique contemporary art experience. We’re grateful for our project partners at Ballroom Marfa and to The Brown Foundation for making the project possible for over 15 years.

Who are some female artists that you currently have your eye on?

This year I loved working with Hiba Schahbaz and Hilary Pecis as part of our Art in Focus public program at Rockefeller Center. Both artists are such visionaries and have very unique aesthetics. This strong vision allowed for two unforgettable public projects.

Any upcoming projects you are excited about?

I’m super excited about Maurice Harris’ public presentation on view now at Rockefeller Center. Harris is the founder of Bloom & Plume and is known for his incredible floral artistry. At Rockefeller Center you’ll find some of his photography featuring Harris’ friends and family amongst breathtaking floral compositions. There are also immersive installations (in the lobby of 45 Rockefeller Plaza) that feature his beautiful niece Elyse who he considers his muse.