A Floating Sculpture By Janet Echelman
- Words
- Jessica Jungbauer
Artist Janet Echelman installed a voluminous sculpture floating above the streets of London.
“The artwork invites you to pause amid the bustle and commotion, offering a chance to gaze skyward and contemplate a physical manifestation of the interconnectedness surrounding us.”More specifically, the temporary art installation was hung above Oxford Circus, one of the busiest areas in the city. Handmade from 77 miles of twine and half a million knots, the lightweight artwork changes its lights according to the local weather. Additionally, the colors at night can be changed by the public via smartphone and Wifi. Titled ‘1.8’, the artwork was inspired by the tsunami that hit Japan in 2011, and which shortened the day’s length by 1,8 seconds. In her work, Echelman specializes in urban art installations and her latest project explores the larger interconnectedness of global events.
A description about the project states: “The artwork invites you to pause amid the bustle and commotion, offering a chance to gaze skyward and contemplate a physical manifestation of the interconnectedness surrounding us.”
All images © Matthew Andrews, Ema Peter / Video © Ema Peter