Switchwall
Artist
Ned Kahn
MediumStainless steel, anodized aluminum, LEDs, magnets
DimensionsVarious
ClassificationsSculpture
Credit LineCity Light 1% for Art funds
Description: Switchwall is a kinetic artwork that covers three faces of the substation’s façade with an array of thousands of light “switches” that are flipped by the wind. During the day the polished aluminum surface of the swaying panels will reflect light and color from the sky and surrounding buildings. As the wind flips the panels from side to side they will reflect light from very different parts of the sky and surrounding environment to animate the façade. As night approaches, or on dark cloudy days, the blue and orange LEDs will become visible and the artwork will reveal a different luminosity but will still create the impression of movement.
Artist Statement: The inspiration came from thinking about the vast array of switches within the urban landscape of Seattle. Every room of every building in the city contains switches that control lights, appliances, computers, etc. The power grid has to constantly adjust as people turn these switches on and off. I became intrigued with the idea of a wall of switches that are controlled by a force of nature instead of the desires of human beings.
Location: 1250 Denny Way Seattle WA 98109
Location: 1250 Denny Way Seattle WA 98109
