Optic Cloak, transforms the 49-metre flue (chimney) of the Low Carbon Energy Centre from a heavy, traditional frame into a lightweight sculptural structure. British artist Conrad Shawcross created a ‘moiré’ camouflage effect, inspired by dazzle camo from first world war ships and optical illusions. Moiré is a French term for a textile that has a rippled or water-like appearance.

The perforated panels are made of all aluminium, fixed to a steel primary frame. The structure is made of hundreds of panels, each shaped like a triangle, that has been lifted and bolted into the primary frame, which creates the moiré’s effect of water-like movement. By layering of perforated triangles, the artwork creates an optical effect of water and a dynamic constantly changing surface. The aluminium panels are overlapped at different angels, creating a surface that appears to shimmer as you move around it.

The artwork overlooks the Blackwall Tunnel Approach, marking the gateway into Greenwich Peninsula. Over 100,000 vehicles pass the Optic Cloak each day and it can be seen from land, river and air.