A Little Bit of Istanbul in London

Arts fairs and biennales are everywhere just now. It's just that time of year where I wish, even more so, that I lived in Europe. If that is even possible.

Anyway, this fun we aside at Clerkenwell Design Week caught my eye. The design studio Russ + Henshaw collaborated with the Tile manufacturer Turkishceramics to create 'The Tile Mile' installation beneath the arches of St John's Gate in London. The installation celebrates the wonderful historical built heritage and the fabulous contemporary local products. The optical effect of the mirrors draws the connection closer together both conceptually, through ideas of reflection and infinity, and visually as the viewer makes the visual connection.

The parallel mirrors reflect both the vaulted ceiling and the intricate floorscape, creating the illusion of an infinite theatrical space with a dramatic pathway disappearing into the distance. This sense of playfulness inspires interest, intrigue and a sense of playfulness, inviting the public to interact with the installation.

The illusion is quite reminiscent of the 'Basilica Cistern’ which is below the Stoa Basilica in Istanbul. It has seemingly endless of columns and similarly elaborate vaulted ceiling. If you're not sure if you know what I'm talking about, it's in the Bond movie From Russia With Love.