Greening the Void stretches the imagination

17 December 2008

Green Void, a new 19-metre tall installation gracing the space of Customs House, stretches the imagination as it freely suspends between walls, ceiling and floor of the atrium. It is the creation and vision of the design team, LAVA (Laboratory for Visionary Architecture), founded by award winning architect Chris Bosse, most famous for his work on the Watercube Swimming Centre in Beijing (PTW/Arup/CSCEC).

"This is truly a spectacular sculpture that brims with energy and is a unique way for the building to celebrate the festive season," said Lord Mayor Clover Moore MP.

Green Void is made with lightweight stretch fabric using the latest digital fabrication and engineering techniques, to create more with less.

Inspired by the relationship between man, nature and technology, this site specific installation embraces and transforms the light within the 3000 cubic meters of atrium space using only a surface area of 300 square meters of fabric weighing just 40 kilos.

Chris was recently recognised as an emerging architect on the world stage by RIBA London.

Green Void illustrates how the past and present can co-exist, and provides an intense visual contrast to the beautifully restored heritage interior of Customs House. The whole installation is immersed in a soundscape, by sound artist David Chesworth, who creates a 'digital rainforest'.

Ms Moore said; "Green Void is in itself a response to the City's vision of green, global and connected. The sculpture is inspired by the relationships between nature and man, it puts the city at the forefront of global design and connects the various levels of Customs House and engages with the public."

Green Void is supported by 12 video screens showcasing the architectural visionary work of LAVA and incorporates the latest 3d screen technology by Peter Murphy, no goggles required!

What:  Green Void installation and exhibition

When: Until 10 June 2009

Where:Customs House 1 Alfred Street, Circular Quay

Cost:   Free

 www.sydneycustomshouse.com.au

Media Contact: (high res images available on request)