Lines Installation explanation.
The Site
A bamboo bed in Eldon Courtyard was chosen as our installation site, as the structural appearance of bamboo could be used to symbolise buildings along our allocated route. The bed is also raised above ground level and has a large open space to one side – a perfect representation of the sea wall and the sea which borders Portsmouth. The sound of the wind in the bamboo is also reminiscent of the hum of sound that surrounds the city, from both natural sources, such as the sea lapping at the beach, and from human sources, such as chatter, music and the sound of traffic.
The Installation
Various materials were used to represent the many lines found in Portsmouth, specifically; lines of sight, light, sound and movement. Each of these has been represented with a different coloured ribbon.
Red posts mark out the route through the bamboo bed (the city) and are connected with a red ribbon symbolising the line of travel taken by us.
The sounds created by us are shown by a silver ribbon which sits above the red one. It is placed higher as sounds are often heard at a higher level than that of us walking on the ground.
Higher again is light represented by a gold ribbon. This is connected at various heights on the posts imitating the effect of the sun shining over the roof line.
Other posts, made of MDF with red painted tips, show landmarks on the route. These are tall, post war buildings, hence the use of a newer material. All of these offer views over the city of Portsmouth and the lines of sight from the top are represented by white ribbons flowing in the breeze. The ribbons were left flowing to show the relative peace and quiet at this height compared to the hustle and bustle of the city below.
The wall areound the plants represents the sea wall and the leaves overflowing represents the city using the sea for recreation and for other uses. The darker coloured paving represents the beach and the lighter coloured paving represents the sea.
