The Port of Copenhagen was once a hub of maritime activity and the Cirkelbroen Bridge is a testament to its history. While working on the bridge, I was reminded of the fishing boats I saw as a child in Iceland. In the harbor, ships were often moored side by side, and sometimes it seemed as if you could cross the harbor just by walking from ship to ship.
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| Circle Bridge Copenhagen |
The bridge is made of five circular platforms, which make up a larger circle that will be a pedestrian walkway around Copenhagen's harbour, where people – on bikes, running, walking – can see the city from a very different perspective. Some 5,000 people will cross this bridge every day. I hope that these people will use Cirkelbroen as a meeting place, and that the zigzag design of the bridge will help them slow down and take a break.
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| Circle Bridge Copenhagen |
In Copenhagen, progress has been made in thinking about what constitutes the quality of urban space and the atmosphere of a space. Obviously, you can't plan the atmosphere, since it is co-produced by the people who use the space, but it is possible to cultivate an atmosphere, so that it can grow. As an artist, I work with abstract and emotional qualities, so this is where, in my opinion, art can play an important role. I am convinced that politicians, urban planners and developers need to expand their tools.
Cirkelbroen, I hope, will contribute to improving the quality of life and the development of a hospitable and inclusive city.