The colour red is often symbolically associated with sin, guilt, pain, passion, blood, anger and debt. Might this be an over-analysis of French architect Jean Nouvel‘s all red design for the 10th annual Serpentine Gallery Pavilion?
SERPENTINE PAVILION, 10th July-17th October 2010
SERPENTINE GALLERY
Kensington Gardens, London W2 3XA (020 7402 6075)
As Nouvel would have it, his use of the colour red is supposed to reflect iconic British images of post boxes, telephone boxes and London buses. That seems all too stereotypical for us Londoners. We prefer Nouvel’s more straightforward justification which is that red simply contrasts with the green of its park surroundings.
The metal structure of the building consists of geometric forms, large retractable awnings and a freestanding wall that climbs 12 metres above the lawn. Glass, polycarbonate, and fabric structures combine to create a versatile system of interior and exterior spaces.
This year’s pavilion hones in on the idea of play, as it is Nouvel’s desire to bring the tradition of French civic parks to London. Visitors can partake in a game of table tennis on, yes, red tables.Other games of chess, frisbee and kite flying are also on hand to entertain the public throughout the summer.
Visitors can relax in the Serpentine Gallery Cafe or attend one of the many events taking place within the structure, including the popular ‘Park Nights’ programme of public talks.
The Serpentine Gallery Pavilion commission is an ongoing annual programme of temporary structures by internationally acclaimed architects and designers who have not yet completed a building in England at the time of the gallery’s invitation.
Invited by the Gallery Director Julia Peyton-Jones and currently funded by a range of companies and individuals, including Arts Council England, each pavilion provides a welcoming spectacle for the arrival of summer.
Tags Arts Council England | Jean Nouvel | Julia Peyton-Jones | Kensington | Park Nights | Serpentine Gallery | Serpentine Pavilion
