A mysterious black shipping container has recently appeared in the heart of Cardiff city centre, standing outside Cardiff Central railway station in Central Square. The container, which measures 20ft, is emblazoned with the glowing words “Under Neon Loneliness”, offering a curious sight to passersby. This unique installation is the creation of Cardiff-born artist Mark James, known for his work in film making and graphic design spanning over three decades.
Mark James conceived the immersive audio/visual art installation as part of the Cardiff City Music Festival, aiming to transform the shipping container into a monolithic beacon at the core of Cardiff. Describing the installation as a dream come true to have it placed in his hometown, Mark hopes that “Under Neon Loneliness” will provide individuals with a space to momentarily lose themselves and unwind amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Concealed within the matte black container are 34 light box and neon signs, each meticulously designed by Mark. The interplay of light from these signs against mirrored surfaces creates a visually striking effect of endless signs stretching into infinity. Drawing inspiration from his experiences in Tokyo, Mark incorporated elements from the vibrant cityscape, trains, and crowds to evoke a sense of isolation and contemplation within the installation.
Accompanying the visual spectacle is an audio soundscape featuring field recordings from Mark’s time in Japan, further immersing visitors in the ambiance of bustling Tokyo streets. Stepping into the container offers a sensory journey akin to being transported to a foreign world, echoing the themes explored in the Manic Street Preachers’ song “Motorcycle Emptiness” and the Patrick Jones poem of the same name.
“Under Neon Loneliness” will be on display in Central Square, Cardiff, until Sunday, October 20, as part of the Cardiff Music City Festival. The installation welcomes visitors daily from 12pm to 8pm for a limited time, inviting them to experience a fusion of art, light, sound, and introspection in the heart of the Welsh capital.