Olafur Eliasson's Lifeworld transforms Piccadilly Circus in October

In early October, Olafur Eliasson’s artwork, Lifeworld, will be displayed on the advertising screens at Piccadilly Circus, transforming the usual high-definition visuals into a blurry, reflective video piece. This installation aims to slow down the fast-paced environment of the area, inviting viewers to engage with their surroundings in a new way. Eliasson, known for his innovative approach to art, hopes to create a sense of beauty and tenderness through abstraction. Lifeworld will also be showcased in three other major locations: K-pop Square in Seoul, Kurfürstendamm in Berlin, and Times Square in New York City. Each version will feature footage of the respective public space, blurred to encourage onlookers to reflect on their environment from a different perspective. Eliasson emphasizes the importance of public space and aims to foster a communal atmosphere through this artistic intervention. The artist’s previous work, Weather Project, attracted millions of visitors and created a unique environment that blurred social barriers. Eliasson’s intention with Lifeworld is to replicate this effect outside of traditional gallery settings, allowing the public to experience art in a more accessible manner. He believes that by altering the clarity of the images typically seen on advertising screens, people will be prompted to reconsider their surroundings. Eliasson’s work comes at a time of heightened political polarization, particularly in the United States, where Lifeworld will coincide with the upcoming elections. He hopes that this installation will encourage dialogue and reflection among viewers, ultimately creating a space for connection and understanding in a bustling urban environment.