Olafur Eliasson’s ‘Lifeworld’ Brings Blurred Perspectives to Major Cities

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As a lifelong admirer of art that pushes boundaries and challenges the status quo, Olafur Eliasson’s latest project, Lifeworld, has truly captivated my imagination. Having spent years navigating through the bustling metropolises of the world, I can attest to the overwhelming sensory overload that these urban jungles often inflict upon their inhabitants.

Olafur Eliasson’s recent creation, titled “Lifeworld“, turns prominent city displays into intricate abstract visual environments. This collaboration between CIRCA and WeTransfer is noteworthy, with the digital art exhibition premiering on October 1st. At 20:24 every night, you can catch a glimpse of this artwork on screens at renowned international landmarks such as London’s Piccadilly Lights, K-Pop Square in Seoul, Berlin’s Limes Kurfürstendamm, and throughout November on Times Square’s 92 screens as part of the “Midnight Moment” series.

The exhibit, focused on soft, hazy generalizations, encourages viewers to delve into the recognizable yet indeterminate elements of public areas, mirroring their environment in real-time through a misty perspective. Eliasson intends to diverge from the commercial imagery typically prevalent on such screens, encouraging contemplation about one’s role and decisions within urban living. Each abstract visual element on Lifeworld serves as a “reflection” for the viewer, examining collective encounters and bonds in common spaces.

Under the realm of Lifeworld, CIRCA is providing exclusive print editions, influenced by the project’s vibrant color schemes and intriguing light patterns, available for purchase until December 31, 2024. These prints mirror Olafur Eliasson’s research into color perception, encouraging a deeper exploration of the subtle sensory aspects that shape our experiences in public areas.

Learn more about Lifeworld by reading our exclusive interview with Olafur Eliasson below.

I aimed to establish a realm that offers no absolute solution, but instead encourages thoughts to meander freely.

How might you imagine impacting the way individuals perceive their surroundings in a lively location such as Times Square by promoting a slower pace?

In bustling areas such as Times Square, everything seems to whiz by—people, neon lights, billboards. It’s a setting that pushes you to keep going, to buy, to rush past without truly taking it all in. But when I deliberately slow down, I find myself noticing the overlooked details, experiencing time and space in an entirely fresh perspective. Slowing down allows me to see more, to truly appreciate the moment. It’s like opening a door to a whole new world.

How do you think abstraction influences the connection people make with public art? And, why do you find ambiguity significant in this artwork?

Instead of providing a specific storyline, the artwork allows for a more individualized interpretation based on the viewer’s personal experiences and perspectives. Ambiguity serves as a catalyst, encouraging viewers to project their own thoughts and feelings into the experience. My intention with Lifeworld was to construct an open-ended environment, inviting mental exploration without offering a conclusive interpretation.

1) How does the Lifeworld critique the impact of contemporary technology on our perception of reality? What is the implication of “existing within digital representations” on our daily life experiences?

When I use the phrase “we live in renderings,” I’m pointing out how significant the role of screens and digital images has become in shaping our modern experiences. We encounter many aspects of life virtually, which are often carefully selected, enhanced, and presented in high-quality visuals. However, these virtual experiences can feel detached from the tangible reality of the moment. The concept ‘Lifeworld’ explores this theme by adopting a hazy, indistinct aesthetic. It serves to remind us that life isn’t always pristine and crystal clear; it’s complex, multi-layered, and occasionally blurry.

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How do you imagine the effect of ‘gentleness’ might have in bustling urban areas such as Piccadilly or Times Square? In what ways could artwork contribute to making a city feel more tranquil and serene?

In a cityscape, softer elements can seem quite unconventional due to the prevalence of hard lines and bold features. With its vibrant ads, clear messaging, and attention-grabbing architecture, the urban environment is usually aggressive in nature. However, introducing softness into this mix disrupts that dynamic, providing a respite for viewers. Soft elements create an inviting atmosphere that allows people to relax, as they don’t feel overwhelmed or pressured by demands.

How significant is the influence of power in common areas, and what steps does Lifeworld take to shift that control towards a broader community?

Public areas are frequently influenced by factors outside our immediate control such as advertisers, governments, and institutions, giving the impression that these spaces belong to someone else or serve a predetermined purpose. By crafting an open-ended piece of art, one that doesn’t dictate thoughts, the artwork transfers the experience onto the viewer. It becomes an invitation for active participation, encouraging individuals to feel they have a role in how they perceive and interrelate with their surroundings, shaping their unique connection with the space around them.

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2024-11-05 21:26