PROJECT CASE STUDY / ILLUMINATED PUBLIC ART
Illuminated Whale Sculpture for a Public Plaza
A rising whale form combines a perforated outer skin, concealed lighting and a fountain setting to create distinct daytime and night-time identities.
Explore the project ↓
01 — PROJECT OVERVIEW
A sculptural landmark,
transformed after dark.
The available project photographs document the development from a three-dimensional proportion study and full-scale model through the supporting metal framework, perforated outer surface, site installation and lighting tests.
02 — FORM DEVELOPMENT
Proportion first,
presence later.
The design study records the main silhouette and relative proportions. A full-scale model then allowed the volume, gesture and viewing angles to be reviewed before the metal work progressed.
03 — MODEL REVIEW
Volume checked
from every approach.
Multiple model views show how the body, fins and upward movement were balanced before the final surface was completed.
04 — STRUCTURE & INSTALLATION
The form is built
around a controlled frame.
The documented structure reveals the supporting framework beneath the patterned skin. On site, the sculpture was positioned within the fountain environment before final commissioning.
05 — DAYTIME RESULT
Perforated pattern,
water and reflection.
In daylight, the patterned surface reads as a reflective sculptural skin while allowing the scale of the internal structure to remain visually light.
06 — NIGHT LIGHTING
Light activates
the patterned skin.
At night, concealed coloured lighting passes through the perforations and changes the sculpture into a luminous focal point across the plaza.
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public art sculpture?
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