Another step forward
READING, UK: Reading Hydro CBS formally unveils our Turbine House Mural as the latest addition of public artwork to the burgeoning art scene in the town. With the screws now installed and commissioning underway, unveiling our new mural denotes two important points for our project; the return of the weir footpath for public use and another step towards electricity generation on the Thames in Reading. As such, with users returning to the weir, it’s thrilling that there is a new feature for the public to enjoy on their way past our site.
Designed by artist Guglielmo Miccolupi, of the solarpunk collective Commado Jugendstil, ‘Community Energym’ represents the Reading Hydro community and the sustainable power the project will generate. Chosen from a impressive selection of entries, the judges noted the artwork’s inspiring design and exceptional presentation. The application process to the walls took place over May 2021, with the assistance of over 20 volunteers. The end result is a high-quality and visually stunning artwork, enjoyable and appreciable to the Reading community from Hills Meadow and the Caversham Weir.
‘The Community Energym’
The piece makes full use of the brief for a fun, engaging artwork about community energy and sustainability. Featuring Archimedes, Mother Thames and droplets from the river, the mural shows how our turbines will generate community power. The droplet’s movements in Archimedes’ gym, generating electric bolts to power our community light, is “…a fun and powerful metaphor to show the interaction between the river and the turbines…”. Mother Thames, sitting beneath the clear message about our project; “This Energy is By the people, for the People”, signifies our wide community of shareholders and volunteers. Without their combined effort, our project would not be the success it has become.
The Reading Hydro Board therefore passes on its sincere thanks to Guglielmo & Laura for their superb efforts and the wonderful gift they have given Reading. We hope the unveiled mural helps bring the community together regarding sustainability and hydropower for many years to come. Thank you!
You can find out more about the mural on its dedicated webpage.
