A site-specific film installation titled Turning the Tide illuminates the iconic disused railway columns this September.
The Thames Festival Trust has unveiled a major site-specific film installation by Turner Prize-nominated artist Catherine Yass, titled 'Turning the Tide.' Running from 17th to 20th September 2026, the work is projected onto the historic disused Blackfriars Railway Bridge columns, turning the industrial architecture of the South Bank into a temporary outdoor cinema. The project is a collaboration with creative partners including Becky Bailey, Hugo Glendinning, and the Graeae Theatre Company, commissioned specifically for the Totally Thames festival.
The installation, which runs nightly from 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM, explores the relationship between the river and the urban environment. To ensure the work is accessible to all, the organizers have included audio descriptions and captions, alongside an outdoor exhibition situated on the banks of the river. The project has received significant backing from Arts Council England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as the Art Explora – Académie des beaux-arts European Award.
'Turning the Tide' is brought to the public in partnership with the City of London Corporation’s Culture Team, utilizing the Community Infrastructure Levy Neighbourhood Fund to support local cultural engagement. The film captures the essence of the river's movement and history, providing a unique perspective on one of London's most recognizable landmarks. Visitors can view the installation for free from the SE1 side of Blackfriars Bridge, experiencing a blend of contemporary film art and heritage engineering. As part of the wider festival, the work highlights the Thames as a central artery for London's creative and historical identity.
This project demonstrates how local creatives can utilize disused urban infrastructure for large-scale public art, while highlighting the importance of accessibility in site-specific installations through partnerships with organizations like Graeae.
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