The Water of Life

A stream of green water flooded the gallery space…

The show, “Life,” is the work of renowned Danish-Icelandic artist Olafur Eliasson, who filled the artificial pool with floating ferns, water lilies, shell flowers, red-rooted floaters, and water chestnut ferns.

Eliasson removed Windows on one side of the building’s facade, allowing the surrounding landscape to extend inside. Spectators and nearby wildlife can then enter the space at any time of the day or night.

Spectators may wind their way along wooden walkways, accompanied by the sounds of insects and people from public gardens, and the smells of plants and water. Changing weather, daylight, and humidity can change the experience of the exhibition.

The various routes give the audience time to slow down and reflect on each subtle difference. The experience varies greatly depending on the time of day: when the sun is out, the water is bright green, and at night, ultraviolet light and fluorescent dyes make the water and plants glow.

Eliasson’s goal is to demonstrate the inherent interconnectedness of nature.

When I look at the green polluted water, I would stay far away. However, Elisason’s water of life makes me want to touch this green water, to touch and feel the existence of life. The green color is elegant, pure, and extremely beautiful, like jade. It gave me a sense of awe for life, I wish to visit once, to experience the feeling of walking on the walkway.

Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in Life Outside of Design Studio and has been updated for accuracy and completeness.