With works spanning the design of buildings, landscapes, installations, exhibitions and objects, the projects of Asif Khan MBE explore sites of complex narratives, community empowerment and questions of identity. Collaborating with Canada Water and developer British Land and AustralianSuper, the joint venture is a part of the ‘Canada Water Masterplan’, and has welcomed a new Khan-designed pedestrian public boardwalk to the project.
A 170 metre architectural landmark sitting alongside a restored rich wetland habitat backed by the London Wildlife Trust, Asif Khan‘s Our Fathers Walked on Water is inspired by the history of the Surrey Docks and the role the location played at the heart of the timber trade during the 19th and 20th centuries.
The bold red timber structure enables individuals to cross the dock, stepping from timber to timber and following in the footsteps of rafters who hopped between floating ‘deal planks’ in years gone by. “The flow of water currents from river, the ocean waves and the bowing form of planks in the hands of a deal porter describe a series of lines which give the bridge its curves and the undulating rhythm of timber elements traced over time along its length,” Khan explains.
“The bridge is a chronograph — a drawing that records time — capturing the motion of these individuals,” the artists continues. “It’s easily forgotten that forests on the other side of the ocean helped build London. Many layers of that story are embedded here. I want to invite reflection, wonder, and contemplation of the past as Londoners walk in the footsteps of their forebears across time and upon water.”
To complement the boardwalk and allow modern day Londoners the ability to contemplate the stories of those who helped form it, Townshend Landscape Architect designed a series of steps down to the water’s edge, with waterside seating alongside an educational dipping pond.
Aiming to enhance connectivity within the town centre, while providing visitors with a new way to experience nature without disturbing the environment, the public can traverse the elevated structure that floats on the water’s surface, offering singular views and bringing folk down to experience nature up close.
“Crossing water can give us powerful sensations,” Khan continues. “This boardwalk immerses us in a few moments of colour, of nature and of beauty. I want to evoke the crossing of time too. I hope this gives someone a chance to take a breath and look at things in a new way. In today’s world, I think this is more important than ever.”
Asif Khan, Our Fathers Walked on Water Photography © Brendan Bell / © Luke Hayes.
