Diatom Power Tower landmark feature 2001

During 2001 - 2004 on the Nar Ouse Regeneration Area King's Lynn Norfolk (NORA). I worked with Sheils Flynn Ltd, urban designers and Penny Anderson Associates Environmental Consultants to develop an art strategy and proposed several concepts for a landmark sculpture and shelter and viewing platform. This sketch is the early concept development for the scheme. 'Diatom Power tower' is a proposal for a 35 metre sculptural tower and shelter with a viewing platform. Whilst the artwork reflects architectural achievement the coloured glass panels use images of the exquisite microscopic diatom forms to create a cathedral like stained glass effect for the tower. This work celebrates and responds to the environmental gains made in reclaiming a brown field site along a river corridor. The occurrence of diatoms in water is considered an indicator of water quality. Diatoms form a vast group of unicellular aquatic plant life. They are invisible to the naked eye and feed on light. In order to be rendered through photography they are suffused with artificial colour thus producing images of considerable beauty. The sculpture/shelter constructed of concrete and recycled glass will have integrated lighting. The lighting will be used to draw the viewers' attention to the top of the tower where a brighter light will be projected skywards accentuating the height of the structure and enhancing visibility in poor weather conditions. Acting as a 'beacon', visible from a considerable distance away.the work will not only be highly visible from a distance it will provide an amenity, a meeting point within the community space, whilst also serving as an interpretation aid or teaching tool.