A new interactive artwork called Fluxland is set to sail on the Thames on 8 September 2016. The interactive artwork created by French artist Cyril de Commarque will be a travelling visual and sound installation on the river.
At 25-metre’s in length, the vessel was created from a former freight boat into a polyhedron structure. The boat will sail along the river docking at different areas for people to board and experience the immersive environment. When the boat is not docked, it will sail along the river as a form of reflection to the viewers. The mirrored surface of the structure invites contemplation from the viewer as it reflects external elements like the city skyline. As a sound element, visitors will have the opportunity to hear samples that Cyril de Commarque has taken from around the world.
The project has been a year in the making. Currently Fluxland resides in a Dutch shipyard and is preparing for its voyage to London. Fluxland polyhedron structure was influenced by the belief in ancient Greek philosophy that shape can inspire artistic contemplation. The mirrored surfaces will invite internal contemplation from the viewer while contrasting the external world.
The name comes from the Fluxus movement, which was an artistic revolution back in the 1960s. This movement strived to break down boundaries between art and life. It sought to show the unexpected by providing instances of art in the public realm. Cyril De Commarque was inspired by this movement, helping him to create the project.
Cyril de Commarque works and lives in London. His work has been featured in prominent group shows at the Grand Palais and the Bibliothèque Nationale de France. His work mixes diverse media and invented structures to explore conflicts in both the modern and historical world.
Cyril de Commarque: Fluxland, from 8 September 2016. Various locations, River Thames, London. www.fluxland.co.uk/
This event is part of Totally Thames that runs from 1-30 September 2016. www.totallythames.org/
