World-renowned artist Olafur Eliasson has unveiled his first permanent public artwork in the UK at Oxford North, marking the official launch of the city’s new flagship innovation district.
Your planetary assembly is a major public installation of eight illuminated planetary sculptures set within Fallaize Park, a new two-acre green space at the heart of Oxford North. Inspired by models of the solar system and the orreries at the University of Oxford’s History of Science Museum, the work invites visitors to reflect, gather and connect within a shared public space.
Olafur Eliasson said:
“Your planetary assembly at Oxford North is an invitation to co-create space, to experience your surroundings as part of a larger negotiation of self, community and the world… This work is open to your interpretation: you may see the polyhedra as elements, molecules or crystals. Your planetary assembly is a public space for everyone… a peaceful oasis that emerges from the greenery of the park, spreading out like a cluster of stars or a cloud of gas in outer space.”
The installation forms part of Oxford North’s Engage legacy programme, delivered in partnership with IF Oxford Science and Ideas Festival, CAS Consultancy, Modern Art Oxford, Creation Theatre and Fusion Arts.
Victoria Collett, Development Director at Thomas White Oxford and Chair of the Public Art Steering Group, said:
“This project has been an exceptional collaboration, kick-started by the breathtaking artwork of Olafur Eliasson. It marks the beginning of a long-term journey enriched by diverse community initiatives and a legacy programme that will unfold over many years.”
Simon Ruck, Managing Director of Oxford North, added:
“Inspirational public realm is central to Oxford North’s vision, and Olafur Eliasson’s new world-class public art installation will offer captivating cultural moments for people who visit, work and live in this new global innovation district.”
Developed by Oxford North Ventures, a joint venture between St John’s College’s development company Thomas White Oxford, Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan and Stanhope, Oxford North aims to create a world-class research and innovation district for the UK and Europe.
