kraken installation made of reclaimed wood spreads its tentacles in lyon

UV LAB unveils Le Kraken ephemeral wooden installation

Le Kraken by UV LAB emerges as an ephemeral monumental installation gracing the central esplanade of the historical site housing Les SUBS and the fine arts university of Lyon ENSBA. With dimensions stretching 25m wide, 15m high, and boasting 180m of tentacles, Le Kraken commands attention, constructed from 1000 sqm of reclaimed wood over a period of six weeks with the collective effort of 30 professionals and students.

This imposing wooden structure evokes a sense of awe, transporting viewers to another epoch or perhaps an alternate history. Despite its chilling presence, the Kraken invites interaction, drawing visitors to explore its labyrinthine form and unravel its mysteries.

The project was made possible by the fund of Mondes Nouveaux, a support program for the design and production of artistic projects initiated by the French government as part of the Culture component of France Relance and Next Generation EU.

all images courtesy of UV LAB

Le Kraken acts as A Dynamic Space for Dialogue and discovery

The immersive experience shifts perceptions; what initially appears as a formidable beast transforms upon closer inspection. Visitors can touch, walk through, and even climb the Kraken, blurring the lines between art and reality. The living quality of the installation challenges conventional notions of architectural integrity, embodying a sense of fragility and inclusion.

Le Kraken transcends traditional ontological categories, embodying a political figure that disrupts established hierarchies and boundaries, representing freedom and unpredictability. Its presence challenges the established order, sparking curiosity and prompting contemplation about its next move.

Le Kraken serves as more than just an artwork; it’s a dynamic space for dialogue, play, and discovery, highlighting UV LAB‘s innovative design approach.

Le Kraken, a temporary installation, graces the central esplanade of Les SUBS and ENSBA Lyon

1000 sqm of reclaimed wood composes the structure, measured at 25m wide, 15m high, with 180m of tentacles

the imposing wooden structure evokes awe, inviting viewers to explore its labyrinthine form

despite its chilling presence, the Kraken invites interaction, blurring the lines between art and reality

visitors can touch, walk through, and even climb the Kraken, immersing themselves in its presence

the installation challenges traditional boundaries, embodying a sense of fragility and inclusion

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project info:

name: Le Kraken
designer: UV LAB | @uv.lab

funding: Mondes Nouveaux

location: Lyon, France

photography: Collectif des Flous Furieux | @lesflousfurieux

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: christina vergopoulou | designboom