If you audibly gasp the next time you’re at the Washington Metro Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Office Building in Alexandria, Virginia, you’re probably peering up at Tunnel Vision, a new site-specific public art installation by architecture firm FreelandBuck. Situated in the southwest corner of the building’s lobby, the massive canopy, which measures 10 feet high by 14 feet in diameter, beckons visitors to take a closer look at its puzzling exterior for an unexpected unveiling at the perfect moment.
Tunnel Vision is made of laser-cut aluminum layers sculpted into cones. The conical form’s gridded pattern allows light to flow into the lobby and onto the ceiling. From the outside looking in, the installation appears peculiar, like something you would see in outer space – a flying craft going at warp speed, perhaps. However, at a specific vantage point, the audible gasp you might make comes from the dramatic reveal of the iconic coffered subway stations by American architect Harry Weese in a striking 3D form.
The photo was digitally printed onto the metal and is reminiscent of the Baroque technique of employing the troupe l’oeil illusion typically seen on church ceilings. This tricks the eye into seeing depth where there is none and is part of FreelandBuck’s exploration of spatial drawings. On display for everyone to experience, Tunnel Vision encapsulates the awe-inspiring architecture, the unique experience, and the distinct identity of the metro system.
Tunnel Vision can be viewed inside the Washington Metro Area Transit Authority (WMATA) Office Building at 2401 Mill Road, Alexandria, Virginia, 22314. To learn more about FreelandBuck, visit freelandbuck.com.
Photography by Kevin Kunstadt.
