In Pictures: Skystation @ Hayward Gallery

Dean Nicholas
By Dean Nicholas Last edited 176 months ago
In Pictures: Skystation @ Hayward Gallery
Cloudgazin'
Cloudgazin'
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... though perhaps not when it's raining.
... though perhaps not when it's raining.
13546_0807_skystationreflect.jpg
A nice romantic spot for couples...
A nice romantic spot for couples...

Skystation, a "new concept in public seating", has opened outside the Hayward Gallery.

Looking like a UFO prop from an old Ed Wood movie, the circular sculpture-cum-bench is designed by artist Peter Newman, who took inspiration from Le Corbusier's LC4 chaise longue. Despite the tough fibreglass build, the Skystation is contoured to the human body, and is surprisingly comfortable to sit on, letting the reclinee gaze up at the passing clouds and drift into a daydream while waiting for the spaceship-like form to actually fly off to the stars. Whistfulness is encouraged by a small plaque that reads: "In Loving Memory Of Those Yet To Be Born".

This being a British summer, of course, the dangers of any outdoor artwork are legion, and last night the Skystation's official opening party was hit by the torrential storms, as one of the pics neatly demonstrates. But when the rays returns, it'll be tough to find a spot to sit on.

Skystation is at the Hayward Gallery until 14th September, and is free

Last Updated 08 July 2009