How Scandinavian artist Olafur Eliasson’s large art installations changed the life of a Hong Kong architect
- Olafur Eliasson’s multisensory giant installations use elemental materials to transport his audiences to other, surreal worlds
- Nelson Chow, founder and principal of Hong Kong architects NCDA, was inspired by the artist’s ability to interact with his audience
The Weather Project (2003) is perhaps the best-known project from Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson, who specialises in large-scale installations that employ elemental materials and extensive audience interaction.
Installed in the giant Turbine Hall of London’s Tate Modern gallery, it used mirrors, lamps and humidifiers to create the illusion of an indoor sun. Nelson Chow Chi-wai, the founder and principal of Hong Kong architecture firm NCDA, tells Richard Lord how it changed his life.
Olafur Eliasson has been influential in my work. I find his art multisensory, placing the audience in a surreal immersive experience, which leaves an unforgettable impression.
I first encountered his work when I was living in New York, when he created artificial waterfalls in the rivers there (New York City Waterfalls, 2008). Then, in Austria, I saw a work where he put fog in every level of a building; you had to walk through the fog, and you didn’t know where you’re going (Yellow Fog, 2008).
It intrigued me and made me want to find out more about the artist. What really inspired me was the interaction. You can’t see a work like that online; you have to physically experience it. It’s what I want from the spaces I create.
His stuff is about teaching the audience that everything, even nature, can be recreated. It’s very scientific, and it helps people to understand nature. The Weather Project is my favourite project ever. It’s something that was unexpected in the space.