London 2008 movable gallery
London 2008 movable gallery
Appearing as a floating sculptural form on the river, the barge is transformed by a series of articulated reflecting surfaces. The sculpted metal-clad gallery rises from the river reflecting and tracing the surface of the water. A large seamless mirrored blade reflects the river embankment and the skyline beyond as a framed image, and the presence of this image simultaneously announces its arrival, and hints at the role of this mysterious floating object as a collection of illusionary urban fragments.
Adding to the illusion, a group of mature trees are planted, and their reflection creates a dense floating forest on the Thames. Benches are arranged to capture views in the dappled light under the trees. The interlocking geometry of the mirror, the Trees and the enclosed display areas, become a series of fragmented urban spaces on the water that represent the city in miniature. This is a theatre, where views are framed through considered openings, and artefacts and displays use the city as a backdrop. Here illusion and reality co-exist.
Adding to the illusion, a group of mature trees are planted, and their reflection creates a dense floating forest on the Thames. Benches are arranged to capture views in the dappled light under the trees. The interlocking geometry of the mirror, the Trees and the enclosed display areas, become a series of fragmented urban spaces on the water that represent the city in miniature. This is a theatre, where views are framed through considered openings, and artefacts and displays use the city as a backdrop. Here illusion and reality co-exist.
This theme continues through the exhibition spaces which are experienced as a promenade, where the visitor follows a route defined by surfaces, openings and textures. Entering this world of fragments and illusion, illustrates the complexity of the surrounding city, and highlights aspects of the city that are familiar but not truly experienced.
Location: Thames, London
Client: Arquitectum
Size: 834 sqm
Location: Thames, London
Client: Arquitectum
Size: 834 sqm
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