In what is known as the longest artwork project, four London bridges have been illuminated in its first phase. The project is estimated to cost £45m. The first four bridges where conventional lighting was replaced with dynamic and calming LED lighting solutions are London, Cannon Street, Southwark and Millennium bridges. The lighting design was created by the US artist Leo Villareal.
Moreover, it is expected that another five will be lit up, followed, by the remaining six next year successfully creating Illuminated River project – 4.5 nautical miles (almost 5.2 miles) from Tower Bridge to Albert Bridge – the longest public art commission in the world.
The lighting scheme is funded by wealthy patrons and is aimed at beautifying the place. Considering that river Thames is supposed to be London’s beating heart and the bridges connecting arteries. Earlier, these bridges were lost into oblivion due to inadequate lighting; however, this is going to change soon. The project aspires to transform a snake of darkness into a ribbon of light, threading art through the heart of the city.
Furthermore, the illuminated bridge project is not a light show, rather the light installed is aimed to heighten the experience and beauty of the place where people can pause and enjoy the moment. The lights, which replace schemes mostly designed by highways engineers, will be switched off at 2 am to allay concerns about light pollution.
