A mysterious black shipping container has made its presence felt in the heart of Cardiff city centre. The 20ft container has been attracting attention outside Cardiff Central railway station, with the words “Under Neon Loneliness” glowing on its exterior. This enigmatic installation is the creation of Cardiff-born artist Mark James, known for his work in film making and graphic design spanning over 30 years. Mark described the container as a beacon, aiming to provide a unique experience for visitors amidst the hustle and bustle of Cardiff.
Inside the container, 34 light box and neon signs individually designed by Mark illuminate the space, creating the illusion of infinite signs reflecting off mirrors on the floor and ceiling. The inspiration for the installation came from Mark’s experiences in Tokyo, where he found himself wandering the vibrant city streets at night, surrounded by bright lights and a sense of isolation. Accompanying the visual display is an audio-soundscape featuring field recordings from Mark’s time in Japan, transporting visitors to the bustling streets of Tokyo.
Mark’s vision for the installation is to evoke a feeling of stepping into a foreign world, overwhelming yet infinite, echoing themes from the Manic Street Preachers’ song “Motorcycle Emptiness” and the Patrick Jones poem of the same title. “Under Neon Loneliness” is a part of the Cardiff City Music Festival and will be on display in Central Square until October 20, open daily from 12pm to 8pm. Embrace the opportunity to lose yourself in this captivating art experience in the heart of Cardiff.