Quantum Cloud and Slice of Reality (1999)
The Quantum Cloud is a sculpture located in the River Thames next to the Millennium Dome.
It is 30 metres high and designed by Antony Gormley. It is constructed from a collection of tetrahedral units made from 1.5 m long sections of steel.
In designing Quantum Cloud, Antony Gormley was influenced by Basil Hiley, quantum physicist. The idea for Quantum Cloud came from Hiley's thoughts on pre-space as a mathematical structure underlying space-time and matter.
The nearby 'Slice of Reality' by Richard Wilson comprises of a sliced vertical section of an ocean going sand dredger. The original ship was reduced in length by 85%, leaving a vertical portion housing the ships habitable sections: bridge, poop, accommodation and engine room. The slicing of the vessel opened the structure, leaving it exposed to the effects of weather and tide.
