Art enthusiasts and commuters alike are in for a treat with the unveiling of Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama’s new public sculpture, Infinite Accumulation, at London’s Liverpool Street station. Standing at an impressive 33 feet high, 39 feet wide, and 328 feet long, this sprawling installation is Kusama’s largest public sculpture to date and her first permanent public artwork in the United Kingdom.
The sculpture, commissioned by the Crossrail Art Foundation in 2017, features reflective silver spheres arranged in a complex web-like formation. Each sphere mirrors the others, creating a mesmerizing visual experience for those passing by the bustling station. According to Kusama, the spheres symbolize unique personalities, while the curvilinear lines represent an underpinning social structure within the diverse metropolis of London.
Eleanor Pinfield, head of art on the Underground at Transport for London, explains that the sculpture responds to the surrounding architecture and entrance of the Elizabeth Line station, which has recently become one of the busiest stations in the country. The artwork features four stainless steel arches that resemble Kusama’s iconic polka dots, a recurring motif in her body of work.
As commuters and tourists navigate their way through the station, they are invited to gaze into the reflective spheres of Infinite Accumulation, offering a unique perspective of both themselves and the cityscape around them. The artwork has been described as a beacon that encourages viewers to look up and contemplate the ever-changing skyline of London.
Yayoi Kusama, now 95 years old, is a renowned artist known for her immersive and visually striking installations that often incorporate mirrors and polka-dotted patterns. While Infinite Accumulation is her first permanent sculpture in London, it is her second large-scale public artwork to be unveiled in the city this summer. Her monumental bronze sculpture, Pumpkin, can be found in Kensington Gardens until November.
In addition to Kusama’s contributions, the Crossrail Art Foundation is bringing several other public artworks to London this year, including a sound installation by Joe Namy at Waterloo Underground station and a mosaic by Hannah Quinlan and Rosie Hastings at St. James’ Park station. Justine Simons, the city’s deputy mayor for culture and the creative industries, expresses excitement for the final addition to the Elizabeth line’s contemporary art commissions, highlighting Kusama’s global reputation as one of the leading artists of our time.
With Infinite Accumulation now a permanent fixture at Liverpool Street station, visitors and commuters can immerse themselves in Kusama’s visionary world of art and reflection, adding a touch of wonder and creativity to their daily journeys through the bustling city of London.
