INF23

ARTIST: Michael Shaw
CURATOR: Court Spencer
DATE: September 2019
VENUE: Left Bank Leeds

INF23 was a site-specific inflatable sculpture made in response to the architectural features within the Grade II* former church building. This epic sculpture measuring 26m in length and 8m in height was made using c.600m of ripstop fabric. The fluorescent Dr Seuss-like stripes emphasised the sculptural form of the piece and created a high sensory impact that appealed to a broad range of visitors.

“The opportunity to work with Courtney Spencer at Left Bank Leeds precipitated several developments in my work, allowing me to test site-specific inflatables on a grand scale. At her behest we lit the work INF23 internally and I’m sure the project has since helped me gain commissions in New York and throughout Europe with the Balloon Museum. Alongside a commission from the 2024 Sydney Festival to create a 200m long site-specific inflatable for Pier 2, measuring 46 x 23 x 5m Hi-Vis was lit at night in UV to create a night club feel.” Michael Shaw

Images 2 & 4 by Alex Cousins.