Lightships

Artist: Mark Dixon
Location: Ipswich Borough Council, Grafton House, Ipswich

With the assistance of Commissions East, Ipswich Borough Council appointed Mark Dixon to develop a Work for the entrance area of Grafton House, the Council's new headquarters. Situated with Ipswich Village, the building is located within a fast developing area of the town which adjoins the historic waterfront area.

Focusing on the highly visible entrance windows, Mark worked with members of staff to produce drawings of ships which were then translated into to a ten metre long frieze lit with ultra bright LED's. Utilising cutting edge technology, a selection of lights are triggered by mobile phones, thereby engaging with passers-by. 'Lightships' reflects the historical context of the building's name and its location, as well as providing a contemporary vision of Ipswich.

'Lightships' was commissioned by Ipswich Borough Council with the support of Commissions East.