WaterWork
Through projection mapping technology, the historic Seaholm Intake Facility façade transformed into a canvas of art, light, and motion. WaterWork, an immersive art experience by The Trail Conservancy and Design Austin, was a first-of-its-kind projection celebrating the dynamic between the urban environment and the natural landscape and the many talents of Austin’s creative community. Artists and designers were asked to create short videos exploring the city’s coexistence with nature in the heart of downtown. The immersive display debuted at dusk on Thursday, September 12 and Tuesday, September 17.
This project is supported in part by the City of Austin Economic Development Department. WaterWork is co-curated by Anahita Bradberry, Taylor Davis, Emily Eisenhart, Moyo Oyelola, and Kristi-Anne Shaer.
All photos & videos courtesy of Originator Studios & Design Austin.
The Seaholm Intake is an iconic Art Deco building that once was the pump house for the Seaholm Power Plant, which operated until 1989. In 1996, Austin City Council authorized the decommissioning of the plant and all the associated buildings in preparation for future adaptive reuse.
In the fall of 2016, the Austin Parks and Recreation Department (PARD) and key partners discussed strategies to achieve the greatest public benefit for the Seaholm Intake and surrounding parkland that could best harness the energy and resources of the non-profit and philanthropic sector. In 2018, Austin City Council approved the Seaholm Waterfront concept plan. Full access to the Intake will begin upon completion of Phase 2 of the plan, bringing the facility to life and providing the amenities and maintenance needed for daily operations. The Trail Conservancy launched a $15,000,000 capital campaign in late 2023 to fund Phase 2 and will begin the construction of this phase once the campaign goal has been reached.
