About Within Water
Within Water is a site-specific installation inspired by the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence in marine life. Located within Liverpool’s Pier Head canal link, the piece explores the dynamic relationship between water, light, and human interaction. Through a grid of programmable lights embedded beneath the water’s surface, the installation mimics the gentle glow and movement of bioluminescent algae, creating an illuminated current that shifts in colour and intensity.
The central sculptural element, a human hand, serves as a symbolic trigger, sparking a physical disturbance that activates the bioluminescent light in response to human touch, emphasising connection and interaction between people and their environment. Within Water invites viewers to experience the vibrance, layers, and fluidity of light as it dances through water, blending natural phenomena with innovative technology. The installation celebrates water’s role as a driving force in Liverpool’s identity while engaging themes of transformation and community.
Yellow Studio are working in collaboration with Propworks, Invisible Wind Factory and Bluepoint Marine Services to bring this installation to life. Early inspiration of bioluminescence during the concept stage was inspired and informed by conversations with The University of Liverpool.
With special thanks to Prof. Patrica Murray BSc PhD from University of Liverpool & Canal and River Trust for their support on this project.
Easy read description
Within Water is a light show in Liverpool’s Pier Head canal. It is inspired by sea creatures that glow in the dark (bioluminescence). A hand sculpture starts the lights when people get close. The artwork shows how nature, people and light connect.
Artist
Yellow Studio
Location
Pier Head, Liverpool, Merseyside, L3 1HT (South End Canal Basin)
What 3 words: army.flat.blows
Sustainability Information
All elements of the underwater aspects of this artwork will be re-used or repurposed.
Accessibility information
A detailed description of Within Water for those who are hearing impaired
Within Water is a site-specific light installation situated in the Liverpool Pier Head Canal Link. Inspired by the natural phenomenon of marine bioluminescence, the piece explores the relationship between water, light, and human connection through a large illuminated sculpture and an array of programmed lights beneath the surface of the water.
The installation is set in a narrow urban canal flanked by wide pedestrian walkways and railing on both sides. At the center of the canal, a large translucent sculpture of a human hand appears to hover just above the water, pointing downward. The hand is rendered in a mesh-like material, giving it a semi-transparent appearance. Its gesture suggests it is gently touching or activating the water below.
Beneath the sculpture, in the surface of the water is punctuated by a geometric grid of submerged lights. These lights pulse and shift in colour—ranging from deep blue to violet, magenta, amber, and red—creating the illusion of movement, as if the water itself is glowing in response to the hand above. The lights are arranged in rows, forming a circular ripple effect that emanates outward. The reflections on the water amplify this sense of energy and flow. Surrounding viewers can experience the piece from different vantage points—across the bridges, from either bank of the canal. The lighting design casts a soft ambient glow on the surrounding area while maintaining the artwork as the focal point.
The glowing hand is symbolic of human interaction, poised delicately over the water as if to trigger a transformation. It evokes the idea that a single gesture can activate unseen forces—reminding us of our impact on natural systems and our ability to engage with our environment in intentional, reverent ways. Within Water blends art, science, and technology to simulate bioluminescence—a reminder of the quiet power and beauty of nature. It pays homage to Liverpool’s connection to water, inviting reflection on how light, like community, can ripple outward and illuminate the world around it.
Visual and Light considerations
The lighting element of this installation consists of various colours that shifts in colour and intensity.
Noise considerations
This installation does not feature any audio.
General considerations
The approach and circulation areas are level. Please note that this installation is within the canal basin and can be admired from various vantage points. The approach and surrounding area have steps, but all areas are also ramped.
Whilst the installation itself does not contain any seating areas; street furniture is situated in the vicinity of the installation in the area.
A detailed description of Within Water for those who are visually impaired
Find Within Water on the map
