London | Spring Forest in Clerkenwell

Introduction by Federica Lusiardi (Inexhibit)
Spring Forest is a temporary installation realized for the yearly London design festival Clerkenwell Design Week.  One of the most interesting aspects of Spring Forest is the playful relationship that it establishes with its visitors. The installation is indeed able to create a visual and emotional connection with the Park where it is located through an allusion to the spring blossom, ironically expressed by serially repeating an everyday object so typically British as the umbrella.

The design concept  by Draisci Studio
Spring Forest is an installation commissioned by Clerkenwell Design Week.
The brief called for a low-budget temporary intervention and resourceful use of sponsor Fulton Umbrellas to stimulate the 35,000 expected visitors crowd.
A further challenge was the design ambition aimed at re-using each component after the event, minimizing waste, and leaving behind just good memories.

Images from past editions of the Clerkenwell Design Week

Like giant poppy flowers (3.5m), a surreal red and pink forest of thin poles topped by 100 umbrellas, marked an urban-green spot (5m x 10m) in St James’ Church Garden in Clerkenwell, offering shaded comfort, away from the city frantic pace.
Symbolizing urban transformation and the awakening of spring, red foam-clad scaffolding components formed a glamorous example of a reversible public environment.
Reversing the perception of umbrellas as symbols of British changing weather, this temporary architecture filtered the Spring light through the unusual canopy, creating an invigorating atmosphere for all visitors.
The open grid allowed social interaction as well as unexpected privacy. Celebrating the physical experience of their senses, visitors explored the poetic play of color, shadow, and light.

Images: courtesy of Draisci Studio