A bridge too far

It's every driver's worst nightmare - a car ripped apart by a moving bridge. But as translated by Michael Pinsky at Wilmington Street swing bridge, it's also art. Symposium - The Bisected Car' is his contribution to rivercommissions, a new programme of public art works recently launched by Hull Time Based Arts.

Split decision: Michael Pinsky with his artwork

Seven new works by different artists are currently appearing around the city. Designed to respond to the regeneration of the River Hull Corridor, they include high-tech light and sound installations. An example of 'temporary contemporary' art, the divided car is expected to remain in its precarious place until the end of April. It splits in two whenever the cycle and footbridge swings open to allow river traffic to pass.

The artist says he drew inspiration from the Ancient Greek philosopher, Socrates, who writes in his 'Symposium' about human double creatures with two heads, four arms and four legs who were cut in half by Zeus. Now we human 'half creatures' are always trying to find our other half - just like the car.

An exhibition held at the Live Art Space in the Ferens Art Gallery in March documents the development of rivercommissions which has involved education and outreach projects with local communities. The gallery houses another exhibition piece, Reading the River by American artist Steve Bradley, a giant sculpture built out of River Hull rubbish.