Flight trainer for albatross, by Greer Twiss

Today is Saturday. Slow start to the day, and a midday run. I went down to Quay Street on the waterfront in the central city to see this sculpture, and take a photo. Despite there having been lots of misty rain through the morning, grey skies retained their water throughout my run. After trying shots from various angles I have chosen this one.

I have copied below from the Auckland Council site some information about the sculpture which was erected in 2004, and is made of stainless steel.

This was the first work commissioned by the Auckland City Sculpture Trust and it carries a message of global significance. It is informed by conservation issues, particularly the protection of our marine environment and birdlife. Every year, untold numbers of birds are killed or maimed through trawling and netting at sea. Many birds not killed outright sustain damage to their wings which cripples them or kills them indirectly by preventing them from searching for food.
The artist Greer Twiss is suggesting that humankind redress these wrongs and has designed a device to support injured birds. He has strapped three young birds on the framework, elevated and with wings extended, in an attempt to teach them how to fly again. The birds face out to sea where they belong. On the ladder on the ground, the fourth bird is learning to walk again.
As well as being a storyteller and conservationist, Greer Twiss is interested in the techniques, materials and process of making art. Looking up at this sculpture, the underbelly reveals rough welds and scoring of the surface. In creating a surface such as this, the artist wants to expose the technique and remind us of the physicality of the process. Greer Twiss has devoted his life to working and teaching sculpture in New Zealand. He has taught and mentored many of our finest sculptors.

In my picture I like all the blue painted wrought iron, and that the old Ferry Terminal Building is clearly shown. One can see the three albatross apparently circling above the promenade, while the fourth is slightly obscured by the blue coated young art buff. While mother waited (almost) patiently, he walked slowly around underneath and beside the sculpture, looking very intently.

Extra: Almost four months ago I blipped another Greer Twiss sculpture.