|
The
Mersey Wave is 200 ft long and 100ft high - it's the same size as
seven double-decker buses and 30 ft taller than the famous Angel
of the North at Gateshead.
The
fanned-out wave effect was created by a series of 12 giant aluminium
fins which have been set at different angles. Each one weighs a
whopping 5.4 tonnes. The sculpture took six months to build and
was installed using a massive 120-tonne crane.
 |
| The
Mersey Wave. |
This
oceanic landmark was designed by the reknowned Czech artist Peter
Fink in collaboration with urban designer Igor Marko of Art2Architecture.
It was commissioned by Liverpool Land Development Company.
The
switch-on event was attended by 150 guests who were told that this
is the first sculpture in the UK designed to be viewed from a moving
car. There were also performances by local children and a fireworks
display.
Speaking
at the switch-on, NWDA Chief Executive, Steve Broomhead said: "The
Mersey Wave is an excellent landmark to greet people as they arrive
in Liverpool. Such an impressive structure is a very fitting reflection
of Liverpool's status as a major European city as preparations continue
for the European Capital of Culture year in 2008."
|
