#London Turbine Hall

[richardarmitagefanpage]

Richard is one of the ambassadors of LAMDA's Transformation Gala. The gala will take place at the Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall, in London, on June 13, 2024.

[garadinervi]

Olafur Eliasson: The Weather Project, Edited by Susan May, Texts by Olafur Eliasson, Jane Burton, Helen Charman, Brian Gray, Sophie Harrowes, Jacques Herzog, Bruno Latour, Doreen Massey, Susan May, Israel Rosenfield, Nicholas Serota, and Dominic Willsdon, Design by Chris Rehberger, Tate Publishing, London 2003 [Exhibition: Turbine Hall, Tate Modern, London, October 16, 2003 – March 21, 2004]

(on the way of Art Books & Ephemera)

[kritikajain29]

Tate Modern, located in London, is a renowned contemporary art museum. Housed in a repurposed power station, it showcases an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. Its iconic Turbine Hall hosts innovative installations, making it a must-visit cultural destination in the city.

I went to the Tate Modern Exhibition Centre last week. The building's front was composed of a jali pattern of bricks with light-letting slots in the glass. It seemed so raw and contemporary. To allow attention to be drawn to the artworks, exposed concrete texture is employed on the walls and ceiling in the interior.

[home-phoenix]

Turbine Hall @tatemodernuk London.

[theoriesanddocuments]

Olafur Eliasson (Danish and Icelandic, b. 1967). Working with a variety of techniques and materials, and realized in a wide range of scale, Eliasson explores perception, optics, and environmental concerns.

The next few posts show artists who have worked with similar ideas, including artists working in the California Light and Space movement. Over the past few weeks I’ve had conversations, with a few different people in our Mentored Studies group, about artworks with a strong experiential element. While all visual art must be looked at to be experienced, these artists tend to make work that, for various reasons, doesn't clearly communicate their concerns via photographic reproduction. An artwork such as Eliasson’s The weather project--an enormous, illusory sun inside a hazy interior space with a mirrored ceiling-- is immersive and interactive: you had to be there. 

Firefly double polyhedron sphere experiment 2020. Stainless steel, colored-effect filter glass, mirror glass, LED light, motor, paint; 67 inches in diameter. 

The weather project 2003, installation in the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, London. Monofrequency lights, projection foil, haze machines, mirror foil, aluminum, and scaffolding.

Installation view: Your light spectrum and presence 2022. Tanya Bonakdar Gallery, Los Angeles.

Unforgetting solar exposure 2020. India ink, watercolor, and pencil on paper; set of 36, 27 3/4 x 20 3/4 inches each.

[kvb222poonwanghong]

Week 3 Artist Research

Carsten Höller: Test Site (2006)

Background:

Carsten Höller, a Belgian artist with a scientific background, is well-known for his experimental installations that investigate perception, decision-making, and human interactions. His 2006 installation, Test Site, was part of the Unilever Series at London's Tate Modern. The work builds on Höller's interest in play, movement, and the physical and psychological impacts of interacting with art.

Details:

Location: Tate Modern, London.

Duration: Temporary installation, October 2006 – April 2007.

Material: Steel, fiberglass, and polycarbonate.

Dimensions: The slides ranged from 16.5 meters to 55.5 meters in length.

Cost: Sponsored by Unilever as part of their long-running series at Tate Modern.

Installation:

The Test Site was made up of five enormous slides that spiraled down from various floors of the enormous Turbine Hall of the museum. For safety and visibility, a polycarbonate coating covered each steel and fiberglass slide. A spectacular drop down the hall was offered by the highest slide, which started from the fifth floor and allowed visitors to slide down from varying heights.

Reflection:

With Höller's Test Site, art watching became a dynamic, hands-on experience instead of being a static one. The slides sparked discussion about the relationship between the body and space and the function of play in daily life in addition to offering an exciting experience. The exhibit created a shared sense of delight, terror, and excitement among viewers, challenging the traditional limitations of art.

Visitors frequently came back to try new slides because each one offered a different viewpoint and tactile experience. The key to the installation's success was its capacity to entice viewers into the artwork and transform them into vital components of it. Test Site challenged the notion of art, emphasizing active engagement over passive observation.

The artwork was welcomed with both praise and criticism, with some hailing its novel approach to public involvement and others questioning its place in a fine art institution. Nonetheless, Test Site remains an important example of interactive and spatial art, demonstrating how art can transform and revitalize public spaces.

In summary, Carsten Höller's Test Site at Tate Modern was a game-changing installation that altered visitors' perceptions of art and space. Höller produced a humorous and thought-provoking experience by enabling visitors to slide down the museum's famed hall, demonstrating spatial art's ability to engage audiences in novel and unexpected ways.

Reference:

Bishop, C. (2012). Artificial Hells: Participatory Art and the Politics of Spectatorship. Verso Books.

Höller, C. (2007). Carsten Höller: Test Site. Tate Publishing.

Danto, A. C. (2007). Unnatural Wonders: Essays from the Gap Between Art and Life. Columbia University Press.

O'Hagan, S. (2006, October 15). "All Slide, No Slide: Carsten Höller's Tate Modern Installation." The Guardian. https://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/2006/oct/15/art1

Active Metal. (2017, July 26). 10 extraordinary staircases around the world. Active Metal. https://www.activemetal.com.au/2017/07/26/10-extraordinary-staircases-around-world/

Rafael Lozano-Hemmer: Pulse Room (2006)

Background:

Mexican-Canadian artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer is well known for his interactive installations that combine art, technology, and human engagement. Themes of participation, surveillance, and the interaction of technology and the human body are frequently explored in his works. Pulse Room had its debut in the Mexico Pavilion of the 52nd Venice Biennale in 2006, and it has since been shown in a number of places across the globe. The installation is a component of the larger Pulse project by Lozano-Hemmer, which aims to record and display human vital indicators.

Details:

Location: Initially presented at the Venice Biennale, with subsequent exhibitions worldwide.

Duration: Temporary installation, 2006-present (exhibited in multiple venues).

Material: Incandescent light bulbs, heart rate sensors, computer software, and wiring.

Dimensions: Variable, depending on the exhibition space.

Technology: The installation uses custom software and hardware to capture and display participants' heartbeats.

Installation:

The Pulse Room is a space where hundreds of incandescent lightbulbs are suspended in the shape of a grid from the ceiling. Visitors are asked to hold a heart-rate sensor as soon as they enter the room. One lightbulb pulses in time with the participant's heartbeat when the sensor sends the heartbeat data to the installation. A captivating display of pulsating lights fills the room as more people engage with the sensors. Their heartbeats are captured and added to the sequence. The installation uses light to create a dynamic, constantly-changing atmosphere, with each bulb symbolizing an individual participant's heartbeat. The light pulses move across the space, producing an aural and visual depiction of everyone's heartbeats who has taken part.

Reflection:

A deep examination of personality, human connection, and the nexus between biology and technology may be found in Pulse Room. The installation emphasizes the shared yet distinct aspect of human life by transforming a basic biological function—the heartbeat—into a communal and visual experience. The artwork turns the room into a living, breathing entity by viewing the heartbeats of various individuals, so creating a collective portrait of people who have engaged with it.

Because Pulse Room is so immersive, it blurs the boundaries between viewer and artist by allowing participants to become an essential part of the artwork. The coordinated pulse of lights fosters a sense of unity and connection among the participants, despite the temporal separation of their contributions. Pulse Room offers a potent remark on the interconnection of human experience through the interaction of individual and group experiences.

Pulse Room has received recognition for its capacity to hold viewers' attention both intellectually and emotionally. The piece of art encourages contemplation on the essence of life, the passing of time, and the manner in which technology can influence human experiences. It is a powerful illustration of how technology can be used by artists to provide memorable and significant experiences that audiences will be thinking about long after they leave the installation.

In conclusion, Pulse Room by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer is an engrossing and provocative installation that elevates the mundane task of monitoring a heartbeat to a profound investigation of human connection. Pulse Room delivers a singular and immersive experience that emphasizes the ability of art to bring people together in a common, yet very personal, experience through the use of light, technology, and interaction.

Reference:

Lozano-Hemmer, R. (2007). Pulse Room: Venice Biennale 2007. Mexico Pavilion Catalogue.

Bourriaud, N. (2002). Relational Aesthetics. Les presses du réel.

Davis, B. (2014). "The Art of Interaction: Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and the Technological Sublime." Art in America. https://www.artinamericamagazine.com

Gioni, M. (2007). "52nd Venice Biennale: Think with the Senses, Feel with the Mind." ArtForum International.

Max Estrella. (n.d.). Pulse Room. Max Estrella. https://maxestrella.com/work/pulse-room/

[thebadarchivist]

Carsten Holler - Test Site

Shown at the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, London between October 2006 and 9 April 2007

[lotusevents]

Exploring the Best Event Spaces in London: A Guide to Unforgettable Gatherings

London, a city that seamlessly blends history with modernity, offers an array of exceptional event spaces perfect for any occasion. From intimate gatherings to large-scale functions, the capital’s diverse venues cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. Whether you’re planning a corporate meeting, a wedding, or a cultural event, London has the ideal space to make your event memorable. Here, we explore some of the best Event Spaces London that guarantee a unique and successful experience.

The Shard

As one of London’s most iconic landmarks, The Shard offers a spectacular venue for events with breathtaking views over the city. Located in the heart of London Bridge, its event spaces are situated on the upper floors, providing panoramic vistas of the skyline. The Shard is perfect for high-profile corporate events, elegant weddings, and exclusive gatherings. Its modern, stylish interiors and state-of-the-art facilities ensure a sophisticated experience. The Ren Room, for example, can host up to 300 guests, making it ideal for both large and small events.

The Natural History Museum

For a truly unique and awe-inspiring event space, the Natural History Museum is hard to beat. With its stunning Romanesque architecture and fascinating exhibits, it offers a magical backdrop for any occasion. The Hintze Hall, with its soaring arches and the iconic blue whale skeleton, can accommodate up to 1,200 guests, making it perfect for grand dinners, receptions, and award ceremonies. The museum’s dedicated event team provides comprehensive support, ensuring every detail is meticulously planned.

Tate Modern

Tate Modern, housed in a former power station, is a leading venue for contemporary art and an exceptional event space. Its industrial chic ambiance and prime location on the banks of the Thames offer a distinctive setting for events. The Turbine Hall, known for hosting large-scale art installations, can also accommodate major events with a capacity of up to 1,500 guests. For smaller gatherings, the East Room offers stunning river views and a more intimate atmosphere. Tate Modern’s cultural significance and unique spaces make it a standout choice for any event.

The Gherkin

Another iconic structure on the London skyline, The Gherkin offers exclusive event spaces with unparalleled 360-degree views of the city. The top two floors are dedicated to private events, featuring sleek, modern design and cutting-edge facilities. This venue is ideal for sophisticated corporate functions, elegant dinners, and stylish receptions. The Gherkin’s experienced event team provides bespoke services to tailor the space to your needs, ensuring a seamless and memorable event.

The Old Royal Naval College

For a venue steeped in history and grandeur, the Old Royal Naval College in Greenwich is an exquisite choice. Its stunning baroque architecture and beautiful grounds provide a regal setting for any event. The Painted Hall, often referred to as the "Sistine Chapel of the UK," is a breathtaking space for banquets, weddings, and large gatherings, accommodating up to 400 guests. The college’s various other spaces, including the Admiral’s House and the Queen Mary Undercroft, offer versatility for different types and sizes of events.

Tips for Choosing the Perfect Event Space

When selecting an event space in London, consider the following tips to ensure a successful event:

Guest List: Choose a venue that can comfortably accommodate your expected number of attendees.

Accessibility: Ensure the venue is easily accessible by public transport and has adequate parking facilities.

Amenities: Look for venues that provide essential amenities such as AV equipment, catering services, and Wi-Fi.

Ambiance: Select a space that aligns with the theme and tone of your event.

Budget: Make sure the venue fits within your budget while still meeting your requirements.

London’s diverse Event Spaces London offer something for every occasion, combining unique settings with top-notch facilities. By carefully considering your event’s needs and the distinctive features of each venue, you can create an unforgettable experience in one of the world’s most vibrant cities.

[artintestine]

El Anatsui, Behind the Red Moon, Tate Modern, London, 2023

[jda-dycp]

My name is Jamel Duane Alatise, I’m an interdisciplinary artist, photographer, poet, director, and model. A British born Nigerian and Jamaican. I am also founder of a purposely-slow publication called People Journal.

I currently base my practice out of my small south London studio, and I am working with the Victoria and Albert museum on a learning and development programme for young people that ends in December 2024. 

I studied Performance and Creative Enterprise at Guildhall School of Music and Drama. Some highlights from my career so far are:

2018 commission by Barbican for their OpenFest, a poetry performance performed on their Highwalks; and a subsequent beginning of my Stories project for the art publication People Journal

2020 solo digital exhibition ‘The Portraiture of Jamel Duane Alatise powered by fujifilm instax’ plus a year long sponsorship by Fujifilm instax.

2021 photojournalism commission by the Young Vic theatre, documenting their first queer, trans, intersectional, and global majority-led show in collaboration with MAC Cosmetics; and a subsequent commission to direct a documentary about the production coming back on the main-stage two years later in 2023

2023 commission from TATE to respond to their Tate Modern exhibition, Liz Johnson Artur’s ’Time Don’t Run Here’, resulting in a performance of poetry which was also later adapted into a soundpiece exhibited alongside Liz Johnson Artur’s work; and a subsequent commission to respond again to Richard Bell’s work and travelling piece ‘Embassy’, which resulted in a live performance and series of theme discussions in Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall, alongside Richard Bell. 

POETRY

2023 commission from TATE to respond to their Tate Modern exhibition, Liz Johnson Artur’s ’Time Don’t Run Here’, resulting in a performance of poetry which was also later adapted into a soundpiece exhibited alongside Liz Johnson Artur’s work

A small collection of poems from 2018 to 2020.

STORIES

Beginning first as a commission titled Satellites (video above), by the Barbican for their OpenFest, gathering anonymous, handwritten stories became a central part of my practice. Starting in 2018 with just a little over 30 accounts collected, and carried on over years, we now have a growing collection that’s steadily approaching thousands of contributions from anonymous people, across several languages including Chinese, English, French, Italian, Japanese, to name a few. 

The project has also been exhibited several times, and made into three different books and counting. 

PEOPLE JOURNAL

People Journal is a purposely-slow publication I founded in 2016 while working at another publication called SWVNK (and later Acure) – it started out of frustration, wanting to profile people that may not be the most popular but have really remarkable stories. Since it has grown into an active art project that documents people over longer time spans, focuses on the analogue, the handwritten, and the intimate moments between people during connections. In this respect, People Journal has been used as a vehicle to bring many together, foster connection, and encourage them to spend time offline, in real life, and doing something cathartic, whether in conversation or through arts and crafts.

The Portraiture of Jamel Duane Alatise

PHOTOGRAPHY

SUNDOWN KIKI

2021 photojournalism commission by the Young Vic theatre, documenting their first queer, trans, intersectional, and global majority-led show in collaboration with MAC Cosmetics;

subsequent commission to direct a documentary about the production coming back on the main-stage two years later in 2023:

[arthistoriansdiary]

The Weather Project

Olafur Eliasson, The Weather Project (2003). Monofrequency lights, projection foil, haze machines, mirror foil, aluminium, scaffolding. Turbine Hall of Tate Modern, London.

In 2003, the Tate Modern's Turbine Hall was transformed by Olafur Eliasson's awe-inspiring installation, The Weather Project. This work, part of the museum's Unilever Series, transcended traditional art boundaries, offering a unique experience that merged art, science, and the human experience of the natural world.

A Sun of Illusion:

Central to the installation was a massive semi-circular form, reminiscent of the sun, made from hundreds of monochromatic light bulbs. This artificial sun emitted a warm, glowing light, bathing the vast hall in an eerie, yellowish hue. The use of a mirrored ceiling multiplied this effect, creating the illusion of a complete, glowing orb and an infinite space above.

Interactivity and Environment:

The Weather Project was as much about the viewer's experience as it was about the visual spectacle. Visitors were encouraged to linger, lie down, and watch the faux-sun change and move. This interactivity blurred the lines between observer and participant, creating a communal space of reflection and interaction.

Reflections on Climate and Culture:

Eliasson’s work often engages with environmental issues, and The Weather Project was no exception. By replicating the sun – the most fundamental natural element – inside an industrial space, Eliasson prompted viewers to contemplate their relationship with the environment and the impact of human activity on climate.

The Power of Perception:

The installation also played with perception and illusion. The mirrored ceiling and the half-disc of the sun created an optical illusion that challenged the viewers’ understanding of space and reality. It raised questions about how we perceive and interpret our natural surroundings.

Your Vision:

How did The Weather Project alter your perception of art's role in addressing environmental issues? In what ways did it impact your understanding of space and natural phenomena?

[bellafox2144]

10 of the best museums to visit in London city

1. British Museum: Housing over 8 million artifacts spanning human history and civilizations, the British Museum is a must-visit for any history buff. Explore ancient Egyptian mummies, marvel at the Rosetta Stone, and admire the Parthenon sculptures. Don't miss the interactive exhibits and special displays that bring the past to life.

2. Natural History Museum: Step into a world of wonder at the Natural History Museum, home to iconic dinosaur skeletons like Dippy the Diplodocus and Hintze the Blue Whale. Wander through galleries showcasing the diversity of life on Earth, from the tiniest insects to the mightiest mammals. Be sure to check out the Darwin Centre, where you can learn about evolution and human origins.

3. Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A): Immerse yourself in the world of art and design at the V&A. This stunning museum boasts a vast collection spanning fashion, furniture, ceramics, jewelry, and more. From medieval tapestries to contemporary fashion installations, the V&A offers a visual feast for all. And if you're feeling inspired, why not book a pair of London split train tickets and explore the vibrant city that birthed so many of these artistic treasures? Whether you're a history buff, a fashion enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful things, the V&A is a must-visit destination.

4. National Gallery: Art lovers, rejoice! The National Gallery houses an unparalleled collection of Western European paintings from the 13th to the 19th centuries. Gaze in awe at masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Da Vinci, and many more. With free entry and themed walking tours, the National Gallery is a haven for art enthusiasts.

5. Science Museum: Ignite your inner scientist at the Science Museum, where interactive exhibits make learning fun and engaging. Explore space exploration, delve into the mysteries of the human body, and witness groundbreaking inventions from throughout history. Don't miss the iconic IMAX cinema, showcasing awe-inspiring documentaries on the big screen.

6. Churchill War Rooms: Step back in time and experience the drama of World War II at the Churchill War Rooms. Explore the underground bunker where Britain's wartime Prime Minister, Winston Churchill, and his staff planned the Allied victory. Original maps, telephones, and artifacts bring history to life, while immersive audio recordings make you feel like you're right there in the thick of the action.

7. Tate Modern: Immerse yourself in the world of modern and contemporary art at Tate Modern. Housed in a former power station, this iconic museum showcases works by Picasso, Matisse, Kandinsky, and other artistic giants. Don't miss the free Turbine Hall exhibits, featuring ever-changing installations by renowned artists. And to avoid the queues, remember to split train tickets – purchase one for your outward journey and a separate one for your return trip. This can often be cheaper and save you valuable time waiting in line!

8. The Tower of London: Journey through history and intrigue at the Tower of London, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the medieval fortress, marvel at the Crown Jewels, and learn about the dark and fascinating stories of the Tower's past. Be sure to join a guided tour for the inside scoop on executions, ghosts, and royal secrets.

9. Sherlock Holmes Museum: Calling all armchair detectives! Step into the world of fiction at the Sherlock Holmes Museum, located at 221B Baker Street. Explore the iconic detective's Victorian-era house, admire his gadgets and disguises, and meet Mrs. Hudson and Dr. Watson. Interactive exhibits and costumed actors bring the stories to life, making you feel like you've stepped into a Conan Doyle novel.

10. London Transport Museum: Take a nostalgic journey through London's transportation history at the London Transport Museum. Discover vintage buses, iconic red double-deckers, and even an original Tube carriage. Learn about the city's changing transport landscape, from horse-drawn carriages to the modern Underground. Interactive exhibits and hands-on activities make this a fun and educational experience for all ages.

This is just a glimpse into the wealth of museums that London has to offer. With its diverse collections, engaging exhibits, and historical significance, these 10 museums are sure to leave you inspired and informed. So pack your curiosity, lace up your walking shoes, and prepare to be amazed by the treasures that await you in London's museum wonderland!

[antonia-gergely]

Current Artist Research - Anicka Yi

(b. 1971, Seoul)

NYT Press Release for installation in the Tate Turbine Hall, October 2021.

"For Yi, 50, the germs and microbes that pass between us are key to understanding how humans respond to one another. And the air that we breathe is where much of this molecular exchange takes place."

https://www.nytimes.com/2021/10/11/arts/design/anicka-yi-tate.html

(relates to food as key to understanding how humans respond to one another?)

"The hall will also be filled with another, less tangible, suggestion of microbial life: an aroma that will change from week to week, conjuring the fragrant history of the Bankside area around the museum, from the Precambrian and late Jurassic eras to the Machine Age. Among the scent profiles Yi has created are those that represent more noxious periods in London history, including the smells of cholera and the bubonic plague."

“I want to foreground the idea that air is a sculpture that we inhabit."

"Much of Yi’s earlier work seems concerned with metabolizing the world — including her own physical and emotional experiences — into microbial matter. Her past materials have included snail excretions, shaved sea lice and the rubber sole of a Teva sandal ground to dust."

Art21: 'Anicka Yi in "Bodies of Knowledge"'

"Unorthodox, volatile, aromatic materials are a staple of Yi’s practice, using living matter like bacteria or worms, medical tools like ultrasound gel, and everyday substances like glycerin soap. Through her use of these materials, Yi embraces deterioration and impermanence, exploring how her works change and evolve."

"Yi became aware at a young age of how certain smells are connected to identity." Exactly, foods are of course comprised of smell and taste, mostly. This is definitely something I'm looking to explore; and Yi's mixture of science and art is really enthralling for me, as someone who is also interested in the biological and chemical aspects of art, and its deep connections to the world of science.

(The chemical properties of different paints, solvents, mediums; the elements that give colour to paint, the plants and stones that can create pigment and dyes...)

[aluprof]

Aluprof's Guests Enjoyed the Gala Night at the Building Awards

Organised by Building magazine, this year’s 2023 Building Awards did not disappoint with some of the biggest names in the industry including HLM Architects, CPC Project Services, Berkeley Group and Mace who all secured trophies at the awards dinner. This year’s event, attended by over 1,100 guests, took place on the 7th November at the Grosvenor House Hotel in London’s Mayfair and was hosted by comedian Rob Brydon.

Mace won the ‘Major Contractor of the Year’ title and the ‘Building Magazine Project of the Year’ title, sponsored by Aluprof, for the Battersea Power Station Phase 2 project. Mark Reynolds, the chief executive of Mace and co-chair of the Construction Leadership Council, was among the other winners, securing the CEO of the Year award. The accolades for CEO and Client of the Year are selected from shortlists created by the industry judging panel, with Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole Council receiving the client award.

Phase 2 of the Battersea Power Station project comprised of the transformation of the former power station, along with a new energy centre and riverside park for the iconic London landmark. The refurbished power station envelope now forms the centrepiece of the 42-acre development which was funded by a consortium of Malaysian investors in 2012. Now complete, the two large former turbine halls accommodate over 100 shops and restaurants. The redevelopment also boasts over 250 new homes, around 500,000 square meters of office space, that includes Apple’s new London Campus and a 2,000 capacity events venue.

Aluprof UK sponsored two tables at the event and key accounts managers were joined by guests from Alliance Facades, Denval, Berkley Group, Stanmore, BAM, Britplas, Elite Aluminium and BB7 Facade Engineering. Aluprof Managing Director, Wojciech Brozyna, commented, “This event is a highlight of the year for us and we are again honoured to be able to sponsor one of the most prestigious event of the construction industry in the UK this evening. Congratulations to Mace on their success at tonight's event, particularly for securing the prestigious 'Building Magazine Project of the Year' title, which we proudly sponsored”.

Aluprof are proud to be one of Europe's largest aluminium systems companies. Specification support is available through the company’s website at aluprof.co.uk, directly from their UK head office in Altrincham or from their London office at the Building Design Centre by phoning +44 (0) 161 941 4005.

[kritikajain29]

Tate Modern, located in London, is a renowned contemporary art museum. Housed in a repurposed power station, it showcases an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Warhol, and Hockney. Its iconic Turbine Hall hosts innovative installations, making it a must-visit cultural destination in the city.

I went to the Tate Modern Exhibition Centre last week. The building's front was composed of a jali pattern of bricks with light-letting slots in the glass. It seemed so raw and contemporary. To allow attention to be drawn to the artworks, exposed concrete texture is employed on the walls and ceiling in the interior.

[kvb222poonwanghong]

Week 2 Artist Research

Anish Kapoor: Cloud Gate (2004)

Background:

Renowned British-Indian artist Anish Kapoor is known for his distinctive, large-scale sculptures. Cloud Gate, which was constructed in Chicago's Millennium Park in 2004, is among his most well-known creations. Known as "The Bean" because of its peculiar shape, the sculpture quickly gained popularity as a landmark.

Details:

Location: Millennium Park, Chicago. Duration: Permanent installation since 2004. Material: Stainless steel. The dimensions are 33 feet high, 42 feet wide, and 66 feet long. The cost is approximately $23 million and was funded by individual donations.

Installation:

168 stainless steel plates are welded and polished to create Cloud Gate's perfect, glossy appearance. The sculpture's mirrored finish reflects the surrounding population and the metropolitan skyline, producing dynamic and ever-changing viewpoints. Its highly polished surface and elliptical shape give it the appearance of liquid mercury.

Reflection:

Cloud Gate modifies the surroundings by captivatingly reflecting the skyline, clouds, and visitors. Its interactive nature is demonstrated by the regular people that walk around and under the sculpture, taking pictures and looking at their distorted reflections. The smooth, mirror-like surface of this material creates a unique visual experience for the observer by making it difficult to distinguish one thing from its surroundings.

The artwork has attracted tourists and locals alike as a representation of Chicago. The artwork fosters a sense of community as people gather around it and engage in conversation. Cloud Gate's ability to simultaneously reflect and change its surroundings makes it a powerful example of the power of public art.

In summary, Cloud Gate by Anish Kapoor is a stunning piece of public art that enhances Millennium Park and offers a unique, captivating experience. Its sculptural form and reflective surface give it a dynamic presence in the city, demonstrating Kapoor's ability to create engaging and thought-provoking art.

Reference:

Balmond, C., & Kapoor, A. (2005). Cloud Gate: Anish Kapoor's Millennium Park sculpture. The Art Institute of Chicago.

Kapoor, A., & Huyssen, A. (2015). Anish Kapoor: Memory. Guggenheim Museum Publications.

Senie, H. F. (2016). Memorials to Shattered Myths: Vietnam to 9/11. Oxford University Press.

This book includes a discussion on Cloud Gate as part of a broader analysis of memorials and public art.

Kamin, B. (2004, May 16). The Bean's sheen: Kapoor's Cloud Gate to dazzle Millennium Park. Chicago Tribune. https://www.chicagotribune.com/entertainment/chi-040516bean-story.html

Voigts, J. (2017, September 20). Jessie: The story behind Wandering Educators travel community. Teaching Traveling. https://www.teachingtraveling.com/jessie-the-story-behind-wandering-educators-travel-community/

Olafur Eliasson: The Weather Project (2003)

Background:

Olafur Eliasson, a Danish-Icelandic artist, is renowned for his enormous works that explore perception, movement, and environment. One of his best-known works, The Weather Project, debuted at Tate Modern's Turbine Hall in London in 2003. The installation, which was viewed by millions of people, became a modern art landmark.

Details:

Where: London's Tate Modern Time: October 2003 through March 2004. Materials: Scaffolding, aluminum, mist, mirrors, and monofrequency lights Dimensions: Approximately 500 feet long, 75 feet wide, and 115 feet high, the installation took up the whole Turbine Hall.

Installation:

A massive artificial sun was created for the Weather Project using hundreds of monofrequency lamps, which only produced one wavelength of yellow light. The sun was positioned at one end of the Turbine Hall, and with the aid of a semi-circular screen and a mirrored ceiling, it appeared to be a full, round sun. The auditorium was filled with mist from a network of humidifiers, which diffused the light and enhanced the ambient atmosphere.

Reflection:

The Weather Project created an immersive and captivating experience that transformed the industrial Turbine Hall into a magical setting. Visitors were drawn to the artificial sun, often sprawling out on the ground to bask in its radiance and watch their reflections in the mirrored ceiling. The installation encouraged both individual and collective reflection, allowing people to experience the environment in a fresh and contemplative way.

Eliasson's studies focused on the ways that weather and light alter mood and perception. His urban-setting reenactment of a natural disaster provoked viewers to consider their own relationship to the natural environment. As part of the project, which also demonstrated how art can redefine and transform locations, the Turbine Hall was turned into a haven of wonder and contemplation.

To sum up, Olafur Eliasson's The Weather Project was a revolutionary work of art that captivated audiences and changed the way people view art in public spaces. The immersive and reflected atmosphere demonstrated Eliasson's ability to attract visitors and inspire wonder and reflection through the use of light, mist, and mirrors.

Reference:

Gormley, A., & Eliasson, O. (2006). Olafur Eliasson: Surroundings Surrounded. Phaidon Press.

Tate. (2003). The Weather Project by Olafur Eliasson. Tate Modern. https://www.tate.org.uk/whats-on/tate-modern/olafur-eliasson-weather-project

Obrist, H. U., & Eliasson, O. (2008). Olafur Eliasson: The mediation of light. Thames & Hudson.

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