The Colours of Remembrance

Artist:
32 Hundred Lighting: Iain Reed (Australia)

Collaborator:
Joe Cox (Australia)

During Vivid Sydney, the internally lit sphere of water which sits at the heart of El Alamein Memorial Fountain in Kings Cross becomes the canvas for a sensitive lighting design inspired by the modernist design aesthetic of the mid-20th century.

The work is respectful of the fountain’s status as a memorial to the Australian soldiers of the 9^th Division who fought near the Egyptian town of El Alamein during World War II.  

A series of patterns are projected slowly onto the central sphere of water. Each pattern represents the various theatres of war in which Australians have fought. The designs that represent the North African theatre are given heightened emphasis, reflecting the fountain’s commemorative focus.

The work is part of Vivid KX which incorporates modernist design in series of light sculptures and installations displayed throughout the Kings Cross precinct. The El Alamein Memorial is itself a breathtaking example of modernist sculpture by artist Robert Woodward and a public artwork of state significance.

Country represented by installation: Australia