A Sky Full of Hope
Anybody visiting Frankfurt would probably not bother visiting one of its largest squares, Konstablerwache. Apart from being a useful hub of public transport and the site of the popular twice weekly Farmers' Market, there wasn't much reason for going there. Boring by day, especially visually with its utilitarian post-war buildings, and a reputation of being slightly dangerous after dark, there really is little to see. But a couple of weeks ago that changed and yesterday I went to see for myself.
It would be a monumental undertaking to beautify the buildings, but it is possible to turn peoples' gaze away from them. A massive sculpture of red and blue nets has been suspended above the square, and after dark they are illuminated by a choreographed light installation of blue and red light. It is 'A Sky Full of Hope – Earthtime 1.78 Frankfurt' by Janet Echelman, and has already made a huge difference. It is inspired by the data of the height of waves of the Tsunami which destroyed the Fukushima atomic power station (the 1.78 refers to the average increase in wave height), and is part of her Earthtime series, which include pieces in Madrid, London and Denver.
She sees her work as a trigger for inspiration - all you have to do is look up - and the colour and form will lift the spirit and counter the oppressive grey concrete. Elsewhere her works have inspired people to hold yoga classes, start drumming groups and give dance performances below them.
I hope it happens here too. It made the news again today - the fire brigade had to rescue a crow from the nets.

