British artist Liz West has unveiled her vibrant neon installation, Fluorescence, at Granary Square in Kings Cross, London, aiming to spread joy among its visitors. Perched on a plinth in front of Central Saint Martins university, this striking 10.7-metre-tall artwork features an elongated tetrahedron structure that reimagines the classic shape of a Christmas tree. With a contemporary twist on festive themes of light and joy, West’s design showcases bold stripes of fluorescent neon colors, sharply outlined by black lines. The installation invites onlookers to immerse themselves in a dazzling display that celebrates the spirit of the season.
The colorful stripes wrap around the structure in a dynamic diagonal pattern, inviting onlookers to move around and experience the artwork from various angles. This interactive element encourages a deeper engagement with the piece, as the colors intersect and shift with each viewpoint. “Fluorescence, with its bold neon hues and dominant stature, is predominately about the power and experience of colour and light on us within the urban environment,” West explains.
In a notable first for her work, West has incorporated black into the design to provide contrast against the eye-popping fluorescent colors. This thoughtful addition enhances the visual impact of the installation, making it even more striking. Furthermore, UV lights embedded in the base of the structure illuminate the aluminum panels at night, transforming Fluorescence into a “luminous centerpiece” for the public square.
“The scale and bright coloration used in the artwork serves as a beacon that radiates and reflects color all across Granary Square,” West states. She hopes that her creation not only brings joy but also promotes wellbeing for all who encounter it, resonating with the uplifting themes of the festive season.
The newest addition to Granary Square’s annual winter installation series has just been unveiled, and this captivating artwork will be on view until February 2025. In her practice, West blurs the boundaries between sculpture, architecture, design, and painting, crafting playful and immersive environments. Her vivid installations intertwine luminous colors and radiant light, inviting viewers into a world that stimulates heightened sensory awareness.
Through this exploration, she delves into how sensory phenomena can elicit both psychological and physical responses, transforming spaces into dynamic experiences that resonate deeply with the audience.