The next week will see the Colorado River waterfront aglow, with an immersive experience projecting the work of 15 Austin artists on the historic former Seahom Intake Facility.

AIA-created nonprofit Design Austin and the Trail Conservancy, with some help from the city of Austin Economic Development Department, on Thursday will launch WaterWork, a temporary, immersive exhibit that will the project artists’ videos on the vacant facility behind the redeveloped power plant, now a mixed-use community of sorts at 214 West Avenue. Since the former intake is on the river, its reflections will become part of the art.

To create the installation, Design Austin asked 15 local artists and designers for short videos that "explore the coexistence of the city with nature in the heart of downtown,” according to the group's website. "The artwork in this showcase celebrates Austin’s vibrant natural ecosystem, our evolving cityscape, and the diverse community that calls it home. WaterWork will transform this iconic building into a dynamic canvas of art, light, and motion projected onto the building’s Art Deco façade to celebrate the dynamic between the urban environment and the natural landscape and the many talents of Austin’s creative community."

"WaterWork is the first use of Seaholm Intake as a large-scale exterior canvas," it continues, "transforming this iconic building into an ephemeral canvas of art, light, and motion. The colossal projection also celebrates the many talents of Austin’s creative community."

Collaborating artists include Ani Bradberry, Emily Eisenhart, Moyo Oyelola, Justin Rankin, Casey Alfstad, Essentials Creative, Ariana Gomez, Jamal Hussain, Virginia L. Montgomery, Liz Rodda, and Hannah Spector.

The immersive display will debut at dusk on Thursday, September 12, and appear again on Tuesday, September 17.

The Trail Conservancy website details how to see the installation:

Ways to View:

  • ON THE WATER: The best way to view the display will be from watercraft. You can reserve kayaks, paddleboards, and other watercraft in advance at Austin Rowing Club, with 50% of the proceeds from the nights of WaterWork going back to TTC. 
  • RETRO BOATS: Cruise Lady Bird Lake in style with up to 4 people aboard a vintage fiberglass Retro Boat, plus light bites and wine! This intimate sunset adventure promises stunning views and a serene atmosphere. Only available night 1 (9/12).
  • CRUISE EXPERIENCE: Enjoy an evening on Lady Bird Lake and some of the best seats on the water with this special edition of the Design Austin Cruise. Meet the curators of WaterWork and hear from a few of the 15 artists who worked on the project. 
  • ON THE TRAIL: The display will be shown on the waterfront side of the Seaholm Building and visible from the south side of Lady Bird Lake. The best viewing spot from the Trail will be at Auditorium Shores.