Cirkelbroen Bridge
From every possible perspective you decide to gaze upon the Cirkelbroen Bridge by Olafur Ellaisson, a Danish-Icelandic artist, it is nothing short of a beauty.
Olafur Eliasson, Cirkelbroen (The circle bridge), 2015. Christianshavns Kanal, Copenhagen. Photo: Anders Sune Berg. A gift from Nordea-fonden to the city of Copenhagen.
Situated confidently like a lady in waiting across the Christianshavns Kanal, the bridge links Christiansbro with Appleby Plads, in Denmark. This bridge is made up of five irregularly sized, inter-connected circular platforms which make up a beautiful 40-metre-long footbridge “to provide new possibilities of outdoor life and cultural activities around the port that throughout history has made Copenhagen a very special city.”
This peculiar form was inspired by memories of Olafur Ellaisson’s childhood which featured maritime life. “While I was working on the bridge, I picked up inspiration from this place and it made me think of fishing boats from my childhood on the island. Fish cutters were often moored in the harbor right next to each other, and sometimes it seemed as if you could actually walk across the harbor by going from boat to boat. The bridge’s zigzag design allows users to slow down and change their focus. It calls for a renegotiation of the public space,” said Eliasson. Its construction and completion spanned from 15 March 2012- August, 2015. And it was built by Nordea-fonden.
There is enough free height under the bridge and can be opened to allow boats and tourists to pass. Eliasson had considered every body while designing this bridge. You can imagine the spectacular view from down there.
And also, the view at night is priceless.
Olafur Eliasson, Cirkelbroen (The circle bridge), 2015. Christianshavns Kanal, Copenhagen. Photo: Anders Sune Berg. A gift from Nordea-fonden to the city of Copenhagen.
I this bridge is a fine blend of strength and beauty, two opposites that rarely mix. Look how the circular form and wooden rails supported below by steady columns, peacefully beckons on the users to slowdown, lean into its soft embrace, enjoy nature, meet new people, and catchup with acquaintances.
Each of the unique inter-connected circular platforms has its own mast, just like that of sailboats. Its playful form peacefully distracts the users from the days worries, and makes users conscious of the beauties that are so easily possessed by simplicity.
They remind us that it is okay to be unique, and that innovation can happen everyday.
Olafur Eliasson, Cirkelbroen (The circle bridge), 2015. Christianshavns Kanal, Copenhagen. Photo: Anders Sune Berg. A gift from Nordea-fonden to the city of Copenhagen.
