WORDS Gina Dionisio PHOTOS Matt Alexander
British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori designed Canary Wharf’s first ever basketball court and it’s a joyous celebration bright colour and pattern.
We’ve long admired Yinka’s work – from public artworks to installations and most recently a striking range of homeware. His latest project? Transforming a section of Canary Wharf’s Bank Street Park into temporary basketball court titled ‘Be the best you can be’.
Unique to the Estate, the space exerts a mesmerising display of colours and striking patterns. The basketball court is the first of its kind to open at Canary Wharf and has been specifically designed for the 3×3 style of play, where three on each side compete using just one basketball hoop.
The creative works add to Canary Wharf’s ever-growing portfolio of public art that now features over 75 permanent works by over 50 world-renowned artists and crafts people. The showcase is one of the UK’s largest collections of public art and is all free to enjoy in the calming green spaces on the Estate.
The colourful court officially opened to the public in May, just in time for the British summer.
To celebrate the project, Yinka has also designed a limited edition basketball with his signature bight pops of colour. (available for pre-order via his store).
Looking for more on art or design? Take a look at artist Chris Soal’s collaboration with Lady Dior Art.
