Located in Churchill Way in Cardiff, there stands a captivating lighting sculpture designed by Port Talbot born, Welsh Artist Grant Radford ,that artfully embodies the essence of illuminated reeds. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this installation is a fusion of art and technology, designed to evoke a sense of wonder and interconnectedness.
The sculpture itself is an intricate arrangement of slender, towering structures that mimic the elegant form of reeds swaying gently in a breeze. Each reed is adorned with an array of LED lights, carefully positioned to simulate the natural luminescence of these graceful plants. As night falls, the soft, ethereal glow emitted by the LEDs casts a mesmerizing aura, transforming the urban landscape into a realm of enchantment and mystique.
What sets this installation apart is its innovative incorporation of interactive elements. Along the base of the sculpture lie 6 pressure pads, strategically placed to encourage visitor participation. By stepping on these pads, one triggers a harmonious symphony of gentle, ambient music that resonates through the surrounding space. As the melody unfolds, the LED lights respond in a choreographed dance, synchronizing their luminance with the rhythm of the music, thereby enhancing the overall sensory experience. The audio accompaniment was created by Welsh Composer Ella Roberts who is based in Cardiff.
This unique fusion of light, sound, and tactile interaction fosters a profound and intimate connection between the artwork and the viewer. Each visitor becomes an active participant, contributing to the creation of a bespoke, ephemeral performance that is tailored to their own movements and interactions. The resulting ambiance is one of communal harmony and shared creativity, as individuals engage with the sculpture and one another, forging a collective memory that transcends the boundaries of traditional art appreciation.
Working with Amalgam for the fabrication of the installation, the reeds are programmed to change colours gradually, transitioning through a mesmerizing spectrum of hues. Soft pastel shades of blue and green may evoke a calm and serene ambiance during tranquil moments, while vibrant bursts of red and orange might convey energy and excitement during more dynamic times. The colour transitions are fluid and seamless, enhancing the overall immersive experience. As day turns into night, the illuminated reeds become even more enchanting. The vibrant lights dance on the water’s surface, casting shimmering reflections that create an otherworldly atmosphere. The installation provides a striking visual landmark, both during daylight hours and in the evenings when it becomes a captivating beacon of light acting as a timepiece chaning in nature every hour.
This Cardiff-based installation overlooking and reflecting on the river is not only a stunning artistic creation but also a symbol of the city’s ambition and connection to nature and the transformative power of light. It invites visitors to contemplate their surroundings, offering a serene and contemplative space in the heart of the city.
