River That Flows Two Ways

Thirty-seven panels of this permanent public artwork are set into the Seawall railing. The project details the ecological and human history of the Battery and the Hudson from the glacial age to the present. The Conservancy raised over $350,000 in private funds and worked with artist Wopo Holup to design, fabricate, and install the sculptural cast iron and bronze panels. Panels--cast iron; two panels--glass; two running bands--bronze

These lyrical images depict marine, natural, and human history. The panels illustrate the explorations and encounters of New York's diverse populations, showing maritime vessels, and moments in the exciting history of the Battery. It arouses curiosity, enchants the eye, and celebrates New York City's heritage. It is a piece that responds to a singular opportunity to make visible how the flow of the Hudson River, the flow of history, and the flow of people intersect at The Battery, making possible New York's ascent as one of the world's great cities.