Southsea Castle’s historic lighthouse has been illuminated once more following its 2017 decommissioning, courtesy of a striking contemporary installation by Lighthouse Turner Prize nominated artist Nathan Coley.
The artwork, which encircles the lantern gallery atop the Grade II listed structure, features seven interwoven words: OUTWITH, WITHIN, INSIDE, SIDEWAYS, SOMEWHERE, HEREWITH and WITHOUT.
Coley’s distinctive text-based installation draws inspiration from multiple sources, with this particular piece referencing Sir Patrick Geddes’ 1905 essay ‘The World Without, The World Within – Sunday Talks With My Children’.
The acclaimed artist said: “My primary aim was to pay tribute to the lighthouse itself. Whilst it ceased operations in 2017, the tower remains a proud and elegant feature at Southsea Castle’s edge – commanding views from both shoreline and sea. Restoring power to this dormant structure after years of darkness has been tremendously exciting.
“The text’s circular motion around the tower creates dynamic movement, reminiscent of the original rotating beam that once guided vessels at sea when the lighthouse functioned as a navigational aid.”
Titled OUTWITHINSIDEWAYSOMEWHEREWITH, the installation forms part of Portsmouth City Council’s extensive public art initiative themed ‘Navigate’, designed to complement the recently completed Southsea Coastal Scheme defences.
Arts Council England funding enabled the commission, which launches alongside Portsmouth’s centenary celebrations marking a century since the city achieved official status.
Council Leader Councillor Steve Pitt commented: “Nathan Coley’s bespoke creation for Southsea Castle Lighthouse represents a fantastic achievement.
“This beloved local landmark deserves contemporary art that breathes new life into its presence.
“Visible throughout our magnificent new seafront promenades, this piece significantly enhances the coastal scheme. Portsmouth’s reputation as a cultural centre continues strengthening, and this artwork will undoubtedly position our city as a premier cultural destination.”
