The art of Iridescence

Iridescence - WWT Washington's new art installation has officially opened and is bringing the magical and extraordinary world of dragonflies to visitors of all ages!

The modern artwork by artists and architects Tony Broomhead and Nicky Kirk, is set over water, and combines iridescent floating sculptures, composed of wing-like forms that mimic the beating rhythm of dragonfly wings, replicating the beauty, grace and importance of dragonflies, and our wetlands.

To celebrate it's installation, we held an official launch on Wednesday 23 July, where invited guests from local community group ICOS enjoyed an art workshop led by artist Tony Broomhead, where they enjoyed creating a colourful dragonfly puppet.

Sticking with the creative vibe, a poetry workshop was then enjoyed, led by local writer Roisin Crowley Linton (pictured below) where guests were put through their creative paces in a relaxed and exciting way.

A procession was then held in the form of a mini parade, diving and weaving its way through the woods to the sculpture, where we introduced Iridescence and its importance, before Roisin read a poem specially written for WWT Washington to staff and visitors. It was the perfect way to launch this wonderful artwork.

Where to see Iridescence

Head on an adventure through Hollowood and follow the winding path until you arrive at our reservoir, where you will spot Iridescence in the water. The dappled reflections are stunning and when the sunlight hits the wings of the sculpture it creates a fantastic array of colours, not unlike their real-life counterparts!

The sculpture is also overlooked by the locally famous landmark Penshaw Monument, offering a gorgeous view no matter what the weather. Audio adds to the effect, with spoken words, vibrating wing sounds and soothing music offering a moment of peace.

WWT Washington is a haven for 20 species of dragonflies and damselflies in the North East during the summer, and the new installation is a highlight of this summer’s inaugural WWT Dragonfly Festival, running until 22 September. It also forms part of the centre’s 50th birthday celebrations.

The festival line-up includes walking dragonfly safaris, pond dipping, craft workshops, dragonfly spotting challenges and giant outdoor dragonfly-themed games. Headline acts include dragonfly-themed stilt walkers, bubbleologists and face painters during family fun days, plus there’s a special silent disco weekend planned too - a fantastic family experience all round!

Festival goers can enjoy Iridescence at the Dragonfly Festival until 22 September.

• Share this article