Ambit
Alison Wilding's response to the empty space in the River Wear, left by the vast former Austin's Pontoon, was to mark this site of great industry with a quiet and contemplatory floating sculpture moored in the midst of the tidal river.
Twenty-two stainless steel cylinders, linked with tensioned springs and carrying an underwater lighting system form 'Ambit'. It produced a unique floating and changing shape, which glowed at night and echoed the renaissance of the River Wear.
I was the Public Art officer at the time and managed the development of the project and liaison with the artist and engineers.
Courtesy of Mark Pinder
ArtistAlison Wilding
LocationSunderland
Date1999 – 2002