British-Nigerian designer Yinka Ilori partially enclosed the Eros fountain at Piccadilly Circus in central London with a pair of brightly coloured plinths. This installation, named ‘Good Things Come to Those Who Wait’, was designed to create a positive message at the centre of one of the city’s busiest junctions. The artwork consists of a pair of Pegasus’s each perched on top of a bright orange, curved plinth made from perforated metal. Each plinth is nestled into the steps surrounding the 19th-century Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, popularly known as Eros, on the southeastern side of Piccadilly Circus.
Ilori’s work is inspired by a story and this installation is no different. Through this installation Ilori hoped to bring people together, to spark connectivity, evoke memories and inspire optimism. According to the artist, it was important for this piece of work to be as big, loud and bright as possible so it would bring people together to connect, engage and experience feelings of joy and positivity. People would also experience it from afar and close proximity would still feel as though it’s in their presence due to how big it is.
The orange plinths are adorned with the words “dream with love” and “protect your dreams” in bright yellow. The text is written in Yinka Sans Ultra – a custom typeface created for Ilori by type foundry British Standard Type. Sat on top of the seven-metre-high plinths, the winged horses from Greek mythology are a nod to the statue that tops the fountain. Although the statue is commonly known as Eros, it actually depicts Eros’s brother Anteros. In Greek mythology, the winged horse Pegasus was born from the blood of Medusa after she was beheaded by the hero Perseus. The cultural link between Greek mythology and Nigerian mythology in this installation works well for Ilori who’s always been obsessed with folklore.
The installation is wrapped with affirmations, which are central to the artist’s work. Visitors get to follow the affirmations and walk around the structure in a somewhat poetic experience. The installation was created in collaboration with Art of London and was put in place on the 20th of August and was meant to be on display until the 25th of August but that was later amended to the end of August 2024. The installation is a manifestation of Ilori’s belief that art and design should be free and accessible to all. The artist is aware that people aren’t often able to touch art in public galleries and museums, which may cause a disconnect of what art should feel like. According to Ilori, “For me the joy from this project really comes from watching children and families interact with the installation.” This is the latest installation created by Ilori in his signature bright colours. He recently designed a mirrored pavilion for self-reflection in Germany and a pair oversized chairs in east London.
