Leo Villareal – Illuminated River

Illuminated River is an ambitious public art commission, presented by the Illuminated River Foundation, that is transforming London at night. On 14 separate bridges along the River Thames, artist Leo Villareal is installing configurations of colored lights to create what he calls “a continuous living entity.” Once complete, it will be the longest public art project in the world, seen more than 130 million times each year during its 10-year lifespan. Conceived in collaboration with British architectural practice Lifschutz Davidson Sandilands, the artwork has been sensitively developed, paying attention to heritage, wildlife, and the built environment. The subtle palette of colors, for example, avoids primary hues, to avert conflict with public safety signage; and some of the installations will be dimmed at 2 a.m. every night to save electricity.