Los Angeles is known for a lot of things, but an abundance of water sources isn't one of them, which is why a public art biennial called Current:LA Water is drawing attention to the LA River with its UnderLA exhibit. The art installation shines complex light murals along the concrete banks of the river that flows near downtown LA, and the messages portrayed in the projections are as illuminating as the medium itself.
Refik Anadol and Peggy Weil, the artists behind the exhibit, focus on water conservation in their installation. Though the LA River's man-made banks were initially built to withhold frequent flooding in the early 20th century, today the river is substantially lower. The projections on UnderLA's light mural give poetic depictions of things like sediment layers in local wells and how drought has caused water levels to fall.
Luminous River Art Installations
UnderLA Turns the LA River into a Temporary Art Project
Trend Themes
1. Public Art Installations - Exploring the potential of using light projections and murals in outdoor spaces to create unique and immersive art experiences.
2. Environmental Conservation - Utilizing art as a medium to raise awareness about water conservation and the effects of drought on natural water sources.
3. Urban Revitalization - Transforming underutilized urban spaces like the LA River into vibrant and engaging cultural destinations through temporary art projects.
Industry Implications
1. Art and Design - Artists, designers, and technology companies can collaborate to create innovative installations that merge art and technology in public spaces.
2. Environmental Sustainability - The installation of sustainable infrastructure and the promotion of water conservation practices can be integrated into urban planning and development projects.
3. Tourism and Hospitality - Cities can leverage temporary art projects and installations to attract tourists and enhance the cultural appeal of urban landscapes.