Art as part of infrastructure
On the banks of the Thames, near Carnwath Road Riverside in London, a remarkable work of art has been created: Herons, designed by British artist Sarah Staton. This sculptural work is part of the extensive Thames Tideway Tunnel project, in which art and infrastructure go hand in hand. The ventilation shafts of this new sewer tunnel are not only designed as technical objects, but also given an artistic identity. In this way, the functionality of the urban landscape is enriched with culture and imagination.
Two herons as a symbol of connection
The two bronze herons, elegant, layered and full of character, symbolise the connection between people, nature and the river. Their posture and positioning subtly refer to the natural environment of the Thames, where water and life are inextricably linked. The sculptures are cast in silicon bronze, one of the hardest and most durable bronze alloys, resistant to weather, wind and time.
The sculptures have a dark brown patina and are polished in specific places, further enhancing the 3D effect. In the changing light of London, the forms come to life again and again.
Sorba’s contribution – technology at the service of art
Sorba was brought in by the Tideway team to engineer, manufacture and assemble the supporting structures and integrate the art into the technical infrastructure.
The project required extreme precision: the artworks not only had to fit in aesthetically, but also had to be safe, easy to maintain and structurally integrated into the ventilation shaft construction.
Sorba developed a customised mounting system that firmly anchors the sculptures without detracting from the visual experience. The connection between art and technology is literally visible but subtly designed.
A fusion of disciplines
The work on Herons shows how architecture, technology and art can reinforce each other. Whereas Sorba normally realises façades, interiors or infrastructural finishes, the focus here was on aesthetic integration. The collaboration with the artist and the client required flexibility and creativity, qualities that fit in well with Sorba’s full-service approach.
Over de kunstenaar
Sarah Staton is a leading British artist, known for her innovative vision of public art. Her work explores the boundaries between art, design and architecture, and her sculptures lend meaning to the places where they are located. With Herons, she has created a landmark that not only marks the function of the ventilation shaft, but also reinforces the identity of London’s riverbanks.
