Battersea Power Station, London - Is the marriage of Art and Public Space the receipt for success?
How do you balance the ephemeral and permanent activities to activate a place?
I was thrilled to find out renowned British artist David Hockney will be showcasing a digital display at The Battersea Power Station. As a fan of his artwork, I was particularly captivated by his digital pieces when I visited his exhibition at the Royal Academy of Art. One room was dedicated to his digital artwork created on an iPad, sparking my interest in his digital artistry. The backdrop of Battersea Power Station for his installation only adds to my anticipation and curiosity.
My connection to Battersea Power Station runs deep as a Londoner after years of neglect and redevelopment. The iconic building has been a focal point in numerous architectural masterplans over the years, and its rich history has been immortalised in various events, movies, and TV series. Notably, Pink Floyd's Animals album cover is one of the most iconic images associated with the power station.
I was impressed by the meticulous redevelopment efforts, from the restoration of the power station itself to the surrounding buildings and landscaping. While the attention to detail in construction materials and design was evident, my visit left me somewhat disappointed due to the lack of planned activities during the initial opening. However, the highlight of my visit was the exhibition display in one of the retail units, which beautifully recounted the history of the power station's rise and fall.
The central atrium space at Battersea Power Station bears a striking resemblance to the Turbine Hall at Tate Modern, a similarity that can be attributed to the fact that both structures were designed by the same architect. However, while the Turbine Hall exudes a sense of excitement, anticipation, and intrigue as a modern art museum with a dynamic programme, I found that the same atmosphere was lacking during my visit to Battersea Power Station. Although the two spaces serve different purposes - one as a museum and the other as a retail destination - the historical significance of Battersea Power Station to London and the UK could have been better utilised in the redevelopment plans, rather than solely focusing on commercial interests.
Despite the challenges posed by its immense scale and height, I was determined to capture the essence of Battersea Power Station through photography. To convey its grandeur, I realised that I needed to step back and include the surrounding context in my shots. The festive Christmas decorations provided a unique opportunity to capture the power station in a different light, offering a fresh perspective from the typical images taken throughout the year.
With the building's size in mind, I revisited a location where I had previously captured a composition that showcased Battersea Power Station amidst its surroundings. By incorporating the Grosvenor Bridge as a foreground element and utilising leading lines to draw the viewer's eye towards the power station, I aimed to create a visually compelling image that highlighted the building's significance.
The digital installation, a projection onto the façade of the building, will only be activated during specific hours. Therefore, there was no urgency for me to arrive at the location early. Knowing that the installation is situated to the north of the river along the Thames, I was confident that there would not be any photographers present during the festival period.
The composition of the photo is quite simple yet effective. The Grosvenor Bridge serves as the foreground, with its curved lines leading the viewer's eye towards the main subject - the illuminated Battersea Power Station. Adjacent to the power station is a residential development, characterised by its glitzy glass surface that reflects and emits internal lighting, enhancing the overall composition.
The residential building, a 12-storey medium sized development, is substantial in scale, height, and massing. However, when juxtaposed with the power station and its four chimneys, the building is overshadowed by the sheer presence of the iconic structure.
The digital projection, featuring two Christmas trees extending from the base of the building to the top of the chimney, magnificently alters the scale of the power station. This spectacle highlights the original structure in a new light, prompting viewers to appreciate its grandeur even more.
Undoubtedly, this installation has captured the attention of many in London. As I set up my tripod and camera to capture the scene, residents, tourists, and passersby paused to admire the beauty of the installation. Many even took out their mobile phones to capture a similar shot or snap a selfie to share on their social media platforms.
Utilising art as a key component of a placemaking strategy is a well-established practice that often breathes new life into a location. I wholeheartedly embrace this approach as it adds depth to a place, signalling that it is more than just a hub for foot traffic, retail transactions, and consumer spending. I would have preferred to see a long-term management strategy that incorporates public art, installations, and events to enhance the overall appeal.
Rather than relying solely on permanent installations, there is a certain allure to temporary installations that generate short-term excitement and draw a diverse crowd to the area. These fleeting events play a crucial role in revitalising our towns and cities, yet it seems we have overlooked the art of curating such activities when planning new developments or rejuvenating existing neighbourhoods.
Similarly, there is a prevailing notion that permanent structures are the only solution to activate an area. However, there is merit in exploring temporary structures or events with a limited lifespan, as they offer the opportunity to experiment, take bold risks, and challenge conventional norms to redefine perceptions of a space.
Historically, many beloved cities have thrived through continuous reinvention and evolution, akin to a series of ephemeral events unfolding over time. Perhaps it is time to revisit this forgotten art form and strike a balance between the transient and the enduring.
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My photographs are published on Instagram and online. Additionally, I am available for private commissions and collaborations with other organisations. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me for further inquiries or opportunities.