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Battersea Power Station Collaborates with POoR Collective to Present ‘Together We Rise’

Battersea Power Station Collaborates with POoR Collective to Present ‘Together We Rise’

Battersea Power Station has collaborated with POoR Collective to unveil ‘Together We Rise’, a new summer artwork inside the iconic Grade II* listed landmark!

Battersea Power Station, an iconic London landmark, has once again become a beacon of culture and creativity with the unveiling of ‘Together We Rise’, a dynamic and immersive artwork created in collaboration with POoR Collective. This vibrant installation, displayed in the historic Turbine Halls of the Grade II* listed Power Station, is a bold testament to the intersection of art, community engagement, and the enduring legacy of one of London’s most recognizable buildings.

The Vision Behind ‘Together We Rise’

POoR Collective—a London-based studio founded by Larry Botchway, Shawn Adams, Ben Spry, and Matt Harvey-Agyemang—has long been committed to empowering young people and amplifying emerging voices in the design industry. Their latest creation, ‘Together We Rise’, is a profound exploration of the sun’s movement, reflected through an array of over 100 flags suspended from the ceilings of Turbine Halls A and B. The installation, which will be on display until 13th October 2024, invites visitors to experience the ebb and flow of light as it evolves from the warm hues of sunrise to the vivid tones of sunset.

Battersea Power Station has always been a hub for artistic and cultural expression, and this partnership with POoR Collective underscores the importance of making art accessible to all. ‘Together We Rise’ is more than just an artwork; it is a visual journey that celebrates the energy of summer and the enduring spirit of Battersea Power Station. The installation draws inspiration from the rich history of the Power Station, seamlessly blending the past with the present, and offering a fresh perspective on this architectural marvel.

A Journey Through Light: Sunrise and Sunset in the Turbine Halls

The installation is divided into two distinct sections, each reflecting a different phase of the day:

Sunrise Flags in Turbine Hall A: As visitors step into Turbine Hall A, they are greeted by the ‘Sunrise Flags’, a captivating display of flags in warm shades of blue, pink, and orange. These colours evoke the gentle awakening of the sun, casting a soft glow that complements the spacious and light-filled surroundings of the Art Deco hall. The flags sway gently in the air, creating a serene and meditative atmosphere that invites contemplation and reflection.

Sunset Flags in Turbine Hall B: Moving into Turbine Hall B, visitors encounter the ‘Sunset Flags’, a vibrant contrast to the calm of the morning. Here, the flags burst with hot pink, orange, and yellow tones, mirroring the fiery descent of the sun as it dips below the horizon. The 1950s architecture of Turbine Hall B provides a striking backdrop to this intense display, enhancing the dramatic interplay of light and shadow. The rotating circular motif featured on the flags symbolizes the cyclical nature of the sun, connecting the past, present, and future of Battersea Power Station in a continuous loop of energy and renewal.

POoR Collective: Empowering the Next Generation

Founded in 2019, POoR Collective is more than just a design studio; it is a movement aimed at fostering inclusivity and empowering young voices within the design industry. The founders, who grew up in South West London, have a deep connection to Battersea Power Station and its surrounding community. Their work is driven by a passion for elevating the next generation, providing them with opportunities to engage with design in meaningful ways.

POoR Collective’s mission is embodied in ‘Together We Rise’, which not only showcases their artistic talent but also serves as a prelude to their upcoming project, ‘Together In Battersea’. This community-inspired installation, set to debut during the London Design Festival on 20th September 2024, promises to further enrich the cultural landscape of Battersea Power Station. ‘Together In Battersea’ will remain on display until 20th October 2024, continuing the studio’s tradition of creating work that resonates with both local residents and visitors alike.

The Role of Public Art at Battersea Power Station

Battersea Power Station has a rich history of hosting public art installations that challenge, inspire, and engage the community. Louise Errington-Thomas, Marketing Director at Battersea Power Station Development Company, emphasizes the significance of making art accessible to the local community. ‘Together We Rise’ is a key part of the summer activities at the Power Station, adding a new layer to the visitor experience and reinforcing the site’s reputation as a cultural destination.

In December 2023, Battersea Power Station teamed up with Apple and renowned artist David Hockney to unveil ‘Bigger Christmas Trees’, a stunning projection on the Power Station’s north facade and chimneys. More recently, British contemporary artist Claire Luxton and MTArt Agency’s ‘Field of Dreams’ created an immersive botanical installation in Turbine Hall A, offering a fresh perspective on the space.

These collaborations highlight Battersea Power Station’s commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive cultural program that resonates with a broad audience. Ben Evans, Director of the London Design Festival, notes that ‘Together We Rise’ exemplifies the transformative power of public art and its ability to inspire and engage communities. The upcoming ‘Together In Battersea’ installation, part of the London Design Festival, will continue this tradition, spotlighting emerging voices and making art and design accessible to all.

Experience More at Battersea Power Station This Summer

In addition to the captivating art installations, visitors to Battersea Power Station this summer can enjoy a wide range of activities as part of The Battersea Games. This sports and games-themed event features family-friendly activities such as a 100m running track, table tennis, a Padel pop-up court, and a climbing wall, among others. From 26th July to 11th August 2024, the Official Team GB Battersea Power Station Fanzone will broadcast all the live action from the Paris 2024 Olympics on a giant screen in Power Station Park, offering a unique viewing experience by the River Thames. Following this, the Official ParalympicsGB Fanzone will run from 28th August to 8th September 2024, featuring Olympic-inspired activities for all ages.

Getting to Battersea Power Station: Convenient and Accessible

Travelling to Battersea Power Station is easy and convenient, with the Zone 1 Battersea Power Station Underground station providing direct access to the riverside neighbourhood within 15 minutes of the West End and the City. Additionally, Battersea Power Station has its own Uber Boat by Thames Clippers pier, offering a scenic 15-minute journey from Embankment, 20 minutes from Blackfriars, 30 minutes from Putney, and 40 minutes from Canary Wharf. The area is also well-served by bus, bike, car, and train, making it easily accessible for all visitors.

Conclusion

‘Together We Rise’ at Battersea Power Station is more than just an artwork; it is a celebration of community, creativity, and the enduring power of public art. This installation, along with the upcoming ‘Together In Battersea’, underscores the importance of making art accessible to all and highlights the role of Battersea Power Station as a cultural hub in London. As visitors explore the Turbine Halls and experience the vibrant display of flags, they are reminded of the rich history and bright future of this iconic site.

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