RiverLiver 2007

The River Liver is an on-going investigation into the creation of wetland sculptures that aim to raise awareness to water quality issues and water pollution. Liver(trans)Plant is a floating landscape module, designed to attract nature and community to the banks of Stowe Lake, Golden Gate Park, during a outdoor art festival. The sculpture's plants acted as a filter, becoming a form of productive and protective infrastructure that actively brake down some of the identified pollutants in the lake. For two days guests were encouraged to paddle the 'islands' around the Lake, while a central illuminated beacon translated the water quality data into colored light, informing the boaters of the real-time water quality. At night, a network of interactive elements came to life. LED's illuminated the islands, translating water quality and a variety of other environmental data into color.

Freya Bardell and Brian Howe offered a shoreline view of the diverse life-forms that were naturally attracted to the healing qualities of this sculpture -- all within the backdrop of Stow Lake’s enchanted landscape features. Situated in Stowe Lake, Golden Gate Park, the Livers are attached to paddle boats and moved through the lake seeking contaminates.


Commissioning Agent: COCA Center for Outdoor Contemporary Art
Site: Stowe Lake, Golden Gate Park
Size of work: 20' x 30'
Media: Polyethylene foam, native wetland grasses, water quality sensors, LED lighting, paddleboats, public participation