ArcelorMittal Orbit - London 2012 Olympic Park, Stratford, London, UK
N 51° 32.321 W 000° 00.771
30U E 707149 N 5713960
The 'ArcelorMittal Orbit' or 'Orbit' or 'Boris Tower' is a viewing platform/sculpture in the London 2012 Olympic Park
Waymark Code: WMEZXH
Location: London, United Kingdom
Date Posted: 07/30/2012
Views: 8
The London 2012 website (visit
link) tells us about the 'Orbit':
"Standing 115 metres high, the Orbit is the tallest art
structure in Britain – offering stunning views over the Olympic Stadium, Olympic
Park and the whole of London.
Located in Orbit Circus in the south of the Olympic
Park, the Orbit is London’s major new visitor destination – both during the
Games and beyond.
The design and construction
The search for a permanent artwork on the Olympic Park was
instigated by the Mayor of London’s Office, which invited more than 30
international artists to submit their ideas for a sculpture of up to 180 metres
tall.
Following a lengthy selection process, the Orbit –
designed by internationally acclaimed artist Anish Kapoor – was chosen. As
well as promising a unique moment and experience for visitors, the spiralling
red structure successfully represented both London and the UK, and was
reflective of the five Olympic rings.
Construction of the Orbit started in November 2010, and
was completed by April 2012.
The Orbit experience
The Orbit is more than a work of art – it’s an entire experience.
After going through the small, intimate entrance to the Orbit, visitors make
their way into an elevator with viewing portholes, which takes just 30 seconds
to pass through the Orbit’s twisting form and reach the viewing platform 85
metres high.
Once it’s reached the platform, visitors can step
outside the lift and experience the Olympic Park in a whole new light – as well
as enjoying stunning views of London’s cityscape. It’s also possible to look
straight down the centre of the Orbit to the ground below – though this isn’t
recommended for the fainthearted!
To conclude the experience, visitors are encouraged to
stroll down the spiral staircase that twists through the Orbit, enjoying even
more amazing sights."