About the Artwork
"The idea is simple. The Pump Station design team is to be lead by a group of 6-9 year olds. The pump station will be will be a piece that embodies the inhibitions of youth and the magic of imagination." - Hanna Benihoud
The artwork for the Boundary Road Pump Station features imaginative elements such as gargoyles and a colourful landscape mural. Gargoyles, originating in the medieval period, were designed as ornate waterspouts to divert rainwater away from the sides of buildings, merging practicality with Gothic architectural aesthetics. The Boundary Road Pump Station gargoyles, whimsically designed by children, engage in playful antics while the pump station diligently safeguards the surrounding community. A vibrant painted quilt enveloping both the site and its structures transitions from fluid to orderly patterns, mirroring the pump station's own rhythm of operation. This imaginative approach has resulted in a landmark that is both a functional piece of infrastructure and a testament to the potential of collaborative, inclusive design practices.
About the Artist
Based in London, England, Hanna Benihoud is an artist and architect. Her multi-disciplinary studio integrates art, architecture and design practices to create art for the public realm.
background
Hanna Benihoud was commissioned for a design only opportunity for the Boundary Road Drainage Pump Station. Design-only opportunities allow for artists to collaborate with the design team to include public art in the overall concept of the space.
The Boundary Road Pump Station, located at the Southwest Corner of Boundary Road and South Dyke Road, drains the Boundary Road catchment. The pump station and associated structures, constructed in 1979 had reached the end of their service life and capacity. In 2023, a new pump station with increased capacity was built to replace the aging infrastructure.
