From 1970, the artist Robert Smithson dreamt of creating an island for Manhattan, the epitome of the urban island. A project the American land artist never saw come to completion as he died three years later in a plane crash. His dream is shortly to come true, however, albeit for just a few days. In September (from 17 to 25), a tugboat will circumnavigate Manhattan pulling the island with it across the Hudson and East rivers.

On the surface of the island, there will be shrubs, rocks and seven different types of tree, up to 35 feet tall. The plan is the fruit of collaboration between the Whitney Museum and the Minetta Brook group of artists. Afterwards, the installation will be moved to Central Park. E.S.