As art becomes more and more accessible, it is becoming more and more interactive. Take the new art exhibit, “Swing Time,” featured in the Lawn on D, a temporary public park in the Seaport District in South Boston. And the coolest part of this exhibit? It is made up of swings. Cue the memories of childhood bliss.
At first glance, the 20 pieces of installation art look like strange white ovals hanging from steel beams; it is a slightly confusing sight to be honest. However, the exhibit is inviting. And after taking a seat on one of these ovals, the swing element is revealed. Upon the instinctual rocking of your legs, the swing proceeds to light up in a procession of blues and purples along with the movement.
While this piece has been referred to, affectionately, as an adult playground, “Swing Time” is part play structure and part installation. The swings contain LED lights and an accelerometer, allowing the swing to change color with the speed of the movement. Designed by Eric Howeler and Meejin Yoon, this interactive, public artwork on the Lawn on D is not coincidental. There has been a recent initiative across Boston to show artwork throughout the city that brings its audiences together.
The Lawn on D by itself is drumming up some major love as simply being a great time too. Alongside the swings, you have bocce, beanbag tossing, Ping-Pong tables, a stage, some Adirondack chairs, and an outdoor bar (so you are never too dehydrated). However, this park is only temporary. The space is actually due for construction, but some Boston organizations are considering investing in a similarly innovative, permanent park in the same neighborhood.
So, whether you are an amateur art connoisseur or a modern-day Peter Pan, make sure to check out this art exhibit before it’s gone. It is so worth it.