As part of Arnolfini’s summer exhibition ‘The Promise,’ American artist Oscar Tuazon presents a specially commissioned sculpture Live Steam Shift Whistle (2014) on The Downs, Bristol.
The work, formed out of a 20 foot steel cylinder and large concrete fire pit, doubles as a community barbecue, and can emit steam and whistle.
Tuazon‘s striking, monolithic sculpture playfully questions the relationship between Bristol’s residents and one of its most iconic public spaces by opening The Downs for previously prohibited communal activity. The sculpture, which takes inspiration from the tradition of architectural follies in landscape parks, is a monument to the people’s use of the site and a shared cultural history. The dual function of his work harks back to an ancient tradition of communal sharing, eating and shelter by firelight.
Throughout the summer, the sculpture will play host to a programme of Summer Barbeques, catered by top Bristol restaurants Rice n Thing and The Cowshed. On the opening day, families are invited to use the sculpture themselves to barbeque and picnic in the picturesque area.
text from www.arnolfini.org.uk
Arnolfini
16 Narrow Quay
Bristol BS1 4QA