Heartbeats in London

Nel-Olivia Waga
September 12, 2015
in collaboration with

Get Lost in the Pastel Clouds Over Central London

Ever since the colourful scenes in Up, I’ve always dreamt about a million balloons hovering over my house and taking me to places that are far away and magical. So imagine my momentary daze upon stepping into the wonderland that is Covent Garden Market Place, transformed by the latest art installation at the heart of London.

Charles-Petillon-Covent-Garden-1

The installation, quite fittingly named Heartbeat, consists of 100,000 white balloons that fills the Market Building and is brought to London by French artist Charles Pétillon. It forms a part of London Design Festival. The full scale of the cloud-like beauty is rather sizeable as it stretches over 54 metres in length and is 12 metres wide. If you are able to pull yourself away from the awe-inspiring full scene and examine the giant fluffiness closely, you will find that each balloon is of individual size and this forms, among other details, the true meaning that lies behind the Heartbeat.

Charles-Pétillon-Covent-Garden

The artist elaborates: “Each balloon has its own dimensions and yet is part of a giant but fragile composition that creates a floating cloud above the energy of the market below. This fragility is represented by contrasting materials and also the whiteness of the balloons that move and pulse appearing as alive and vibrant as the area itself.” And like a heart that is beating as well, strongly and consistently.

charles-petillon-london5

Even though all the balloons are white, the installation itself is not simply a mono-coloured mass. With the glass ceiling over the Market Place Covent Garden letting through the ever-changing light of the London sky, Heartbeat can transform from the prettiest pastel pink in the morning to an electric dusty blue at dusk. According to the onlookers, it showcases the space in a complete new light and creates a lively atmosphere, not to mention the child-like joyous energy it has somehow injected to everyone enjoying its presence.

charles-petillon-london2-940x940

This is not Charles’ first space domination using white balloons, he is known for his invasions – cleverly and passionately placing white balloon bundles in a wide array of contrasting surroundings to create beautiful and powerful art scenes. For more on the artist and his previous works please visit his website at http://www.charlespetillon.com. Heartbeat will run until 27 September and London Design Festival this year will take place between 19 – 27 September (http://www.londondesignfestival.com).

______________________________________________________________

HER/etiquette

Founded in 2014 and reimagined in 2019 by Nel-Olivia Waga, HER/etiquette is an international blog rooted in Zurich, and shaped by conscious luxury. It explores global trends and everyday rituals across art, longevity, wellness, innovation, beauty, and design, highlighting brands and individuals who bring meaning and creative solutions to modern living.

Nel-Olivia Waga is the Founder & Publisher of HER/etiquette. She is a Brand Consultant, Author, and Entrepreneur. Her work regularly appears in her FORBES column. She is also the founder of YMPACT LAB, a consultancy that develops innovative concepts for global brands with a focus on purpose and impact.

CONSCIOUS LUXUR

#ConsciousLuxury is the theme of HER ETIQUETTE. We spotlight pioneers who rethink excellence through transparency, intention, and care for both people and planet. Each story opens a window into what drives meaningful change, whether it’s a new perspective, a responsible approach, or a quiet detail that speaks volumes. It’s our way of inviting more depth into the way we experience modern life.

 

PLANT TREES WITH US

Copyright:
Covent Garden London and Staff Picks

CONSCIOUS LUXUR

#ConsciousLuxury is the theme of HER ETIQUETTE. We spotlight pioneers who rethink excellence through transparency, intention, and care for both people and planet. Each story opens a window into what drives meaningful change, whether it’s a new perspective, a responsible approach, or a quiet detail that speaks volumes. It’s our way of inviting more depth into the way we experience modern life.

 

PLANT TREES WITH US

BOOK OF THE MONTH

Paid partnership with Amazon