Crystal prisms reflect and refract light to brighten their surroundings. They alter the atmospheric quality of a space by changing the way light typically travels. Light bends when it passes through a transparent material, and in a prism, a spectrum of colours appear and disappear.

In one of the most sun-bathed corners of Green Park, PRISM WALL emerges as an illuminated object generating brilliant rainbows, beams of light, and distinct shadows through different levels of transparency. Over 200 crystal prisms, visible from St Vincent’s Hospital, form a continuously morphing spectrum of refractions and reflections that paint the park in rainbows. Based on the location of the sun in the sky, the prisms create visible light patterns, which give expression to the natural invisible forces which exist within Green Park. The movement of the sun creates ever changing beams of light, and determines the amount, direction, and behaviour of kaleidoscopic light formations projected onto the ground.

“The rainbow flag has come to represent the LGBTIQ community’s struggles for liberation, survival and equality.” – Lord Mayor Clover Moore

The symbol of the rainbow voices a connection to Darlinghurst’s longstanding support and pride for our city’s LGBTIQ community and its luminosity is a reminder of the spirit, creativity and joy that Sydney holds as universal values. Green Park carries a rich history of LGBTIQ activism and advocacy, which places it in a unique position to tell a story of the strength and courage of the LGBTIQ community. PRISM WALL seeks to honour the significance of St. Vincent’s Hospital and Green Park to those affected by HIV/AIDS through a commemorative and ephemeral space for memory, respite and healing. The work complements the iconic rainbow crossing at Oxford St’s Taylor Square, expanding this symbol of pride, and enriching Green Park with its own unique gesture of social inclusion.