Inspirations

Since childhood I have been fascinated by the beauty of illuminated fountains, for instance the ‘Waltzing Waters’ that appeared in various amusement parks and department stores in the fifties and sixties, or the more spectacular displays such as the ‘Magic Fountain’ in Placa Espana, Barcelona or the Hotel Bellagio in Las Vegas, both of which entertain thousands of tourists each night.

My intention is to build a reputation as a creator of unique, stunning and magical light and water sculptures, albeit on a smaller scale than the above. I propose to significantly advance this art-form via the introduction of imaginative technological innovations and in particular I propose to take advantage of new possibilities specifically allowed by the smaller physical scale. This new approach crosses several disciplines (physics, electronics, sculpture, psychology, plumbing, music, lighting design and water-gardening) and will help dissolve boundaries between science and art. I certainly find that this project combines my artistic and scientific aspirations in a most satisfying manner.

I would hope to start by satisfying the famous TV garden designer, Monty Don....who says in his Observer column of 18th January 2004: 'Much proprietary garden lighting looks naff or garish. Garden lighting should be subtle, personal and intimate...a flicker or glow is all that is needed. The light thrown must rest modestly within the shadows created.' 

Some guiding principles
Develop the concept of 'liquid fireworks'.
Explore the synchronisation of  water movement with patterns of illumination.
Revive ancient alchemies.
Explore ways for water sculptures to interact with the viewer and with music.
Create more intricate water choreography than in the prior art by working in finer detail and exploiting the faster speeds allowed by working on a smaller physical scale.
Experiment with the full range of shapes and forms of water movement.
Paint mesmeric pictures with water.
Conceal light sources wherever possible, so that the water appears to be self-illuminated. 
Exploit features of the senses such as the persistence of vision or optical illusions, e.g. to create phantom 3-D images.
Harmonise designs with the intended display environment by using primarily natural, traditional and durable materials for the exterior enclosures.
Overcome the fabrication challenges involved in incorporating technology with natural materials.
Simulate paradisial astral worlds.

© 2005  Orrelwood Waterworks      Last updated: 05 Jan 2007 .