Streaks of colour cascade down the steps of Greenwich Peninsula’s linear park, The Tide, converging in a kaleidoscopic pool – an unexpected intervention by Turner Prize-nominated artist Ian Davenport.
‘Poured Staircase’ – unveiled in June 2023 and debuted as part of London Design Festival 2023 – continues Davenport’s ongoing exploration of colour and is conceived as an immersive river of colour. Distinct bands of colour move down the steps in parallel stripes, arriving at the bottom of the staircase where they meld like a giant, colourful paint slick.
While it looks wet and sticky, visitors can walk across the public installation as it continues down the transitional space, questioning the idea of permanency, materiality, colour, and movement. Though static, the piece mimics the rhythm and tidal pull of the nearby River Thames, expressing its flow through vibrant hues.
The Tide is a 5 km long public art trail and park that will eventually join together the seven districts of Greenwich Peninsula. The linear park is designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Neiheiser Agyros as a network of public spaces and embedded gardens. Davenport’s work is on show beyond LDF, and joins permanent installations and artworks by Liz West, Felipe Pantone, Damien Hirst, Allen Jones and Morag Mysercough.
Daily 8 am – 11 pm at The Tide, Pier Walk, London, SE10 0ES
