In the heart of Cardiff Bay lies a piece of art that many pass by without noticing its hidden beauty. Among the myriad of art pieces scattered around the city, there’s one particular artwork that might have escaped your attention. What appears to be random strips of paint across the Cardiff Bay Barrage is actually a meticulously crafted design by artist Felice Varini. The circles of yellow paint that adorn the lock and barrage walls were carefully painted in 2007 and continue to captivate those who discover the intricacies of this hidden gem.
If you have strolled across the barrage, you might have missed the subtle beauty of this art installation. The yellow circles painted by Varini are not haphazard but strategically placed to create a mesmerising effect. When viewed from a specific angle, these painted circles reveal themselves as three ellipses meticulously painted across the working locks, the ground, the gates, and the outer sea wall. This £25,000 artwork commissioned by Welsh arts agency CBAT showcases Varini’s expertise in anamorphic art, a style that plays with perspective to create hidden images.
First unveiled 17 years ago, the “Three Ellipses for Three Locks” installation, more commonly known as “The Barrage Circles,” continues to intrigue and mesmerise onlookers who stumble upon its hidden beauty. Despite its undeniable allure, some passersby walk past without recognising the effort and artistry that went into creating this masterpiece. The Swiss-born artist, Varini, has left his mark on Cardiff Bay with this cleverly designed artwork that transcends time and continues to spark curiosity in those who pause to admire its intricacy.
The careful placement of each yellow circle across the lock and barrage walls is a testament to Varini’s skill and vision. What may seem like a simple splash of colour at first glance transforms into a stunning display of geometric artistry when viewed from the right perspective. The play of light and shadows on the painted surfaces adds another layer of depth to the artwork, enhancing its impact on those who take a moment to appreciate its beauty.
For those who have not yet had the chance to witness the beauty of “The Barrage Circles,” it’s worth taking a leisurely stroll along the Cardiff Bay Barrage to discover this hidden gem. The fusion of art and architecture in this installation serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures that lie within the city, waiting to be noticed and admired. As Cardiff continues to evolve and grow, these subtle touches of creativity add a unique charm to the urban landscape, enriching the cultural tapestry of the vibrant Welsh capital.
In a bustling city like Cardiff, where art and culture intertwine with everyday life, discoveries like “The Barrage Circles” offer a moment of respite and contemplation for residents and visitors alike. The fusion of nature, architecture, and art in this hidden masterpiece invites viewers to see the world through a different lens, appreciating the beauty that surrounds us in unexpected places. So, next time you find yourself in Cardiff Bay, take a moment to seek out this hidden gem and marvel at the creativity that lies just beneath the surface of everyday life.