Subterranium Planetarium - Leo Saul Berk
Artist Leo Saul Berk’s concept is to create an underground planetarium by cutting an artist-designed hatch pattern into the back-lit metal walls of the station interior. The walls make up the chamber where transit riders traverse the deep underground station on two pair of up-down escalators and on two elevators. The patterns relate to the actual geologic cross-section of the station site, and are inspired by geology soil coding. The experience will remind the viewer of where they are and what is just on the other side of this station’s massive concrete walls.
Of the concept, Berk states, “My primary inspiration for the artwork for this station is the actual depth of the station platform. The 110 foot decent/ascent will be primarily accessed through escalators creating an excellent opportunity for riders to reflect on the significance of this location."
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This photo shows part of the inspiration for the concept - dappled light through a roof of an old barn creates patterns on the surfaces of the interior space. |
The blue area in this cross-section view of the station will feature the artist designed wall panels.
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Rendering of the view as visitors of the station begin their decent towards the platform level.
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This rendering illustrates the view as visitors to the station head up to the street level. The walls of the chamber cant inward towards the ceiling, creating a dynamically multifacted space. |
Leo Berk created this early prototype piece so that he could study the materials and lighting effects.
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Learn more about the University of Washington light rail station>>
Comments?
For comments about this STart project, please contact:
Jennifer Babuca
Public Art Program Coordinator
(206) 398-5120
babucaj@soundtransit.org
