Explore Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian's Cosmic Playground at Piccadilly Un:Plugged

Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian's Vision for London's Nightlife

In an age where urban landscapes merge art with life, Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian has carved a niche for herself as a transformative designer. Her recent project, Piccadilly Un:Plugged, showcases her ambition to redefine public spaces in London, turning Piccadilly Circus into a multi-sensory cosmos reminiscent of futuristic possibilities. Spanning from Leicester Square to St James's Market, the installation aims to uplift the community's nightlife, an essential aspect of city living.

Embracing Extraterrestrial Aesthetics

With inflatable cats and asteroid boulders, the installation reminds us of Schrödinger's cat—a whimsical yet powerful thought experiment that suggests the universe is infinitely more complex than human common sense often perceives. Nelly believes in encouraging our radical imaginations; thus, these sculptures invite the audience to ponder the myriad futures that lie ahead, not just on Earth but beyond it. Her playful artistic choices reflect a deep understanding of how art can be interwoven with community experiences.

A Cosmic Playground

Described by the designer as a "cosmic playground", this installation offers a mesmerizing visual and auditory feast. Influenced by her background in textiles and a love for chrome and iridescent finishes, the inflatable sculptures present an alien aesthetic that challenges the viewer's perception. "You should look at the sculptures and ask: what is this and what is it made of?" Nelly urges, inviting curiosity that prompts deeper engagement.

Soundscapes of the Universe

The installation also features a unique lunar sound experiment, bridging the cosmic and the earthly. By bouncing sound signals off the moon's surface, Ben Hayoun-Stépanian creates an audio experience rich in static and chaos. "It’s uncomfortable to the human ear, but it pushes us to listen in a different way—it's like DJing with the moon," she explains. This innovative approach to sound invites participants to rethink how we perceive and interact with the world around us.

Creativity Through Collaboration

Part of Piccadilly Un:Plugged also includes a collection of ceramic artworks co-created with local youth groups. By tapping into the imaginations of young creators, the installation becomes an exploration of how popular culture influences our visions of extraterrestrial life. This collaborative effort does not just elevate the art but also fosters a sense of community ownership and involvement, crucial elements in the evolution of public art.

Reflecting on a Diverse Landscape

As a London-based designer and filmmaker, Nelly’s portfolio speaks volumes about her commitment to innovation and inclusivity in design. Previous projects like Tour de Moon and I Am (Not) a Monster reveal her multifaceted approach to creativity—exploring diversity and challenging norms within the design industry. Piccadilly Un:Plugged is yet another example of how public installations can serve as platforms for broader conversations about our future and the roles we play in shaping it.

Join the Cosmic Journey

With such dynamic installations, it's crucial to consider what these artistic endeavors mean for homeowners and design enthusiasts alike. As urban spaces continue to evolve, so too does the approach to home and interior design. Experiencing art like Piccadilly Un:Plugged is an opportunity to rethink how we envision our own spaces. Every corner of our homes can reflect the vibrant creativity found within city installations, influencing our choice of design elements.

If you’re inspired by Nelly Ben Hayoun-Stépanian's vision of interstellar art reshaping urban landscapes, it's time to reimagine your spaces at home. Let Us Design, Plan & Build Your Next Home or Remodel. Contact us at 831-521-7729!