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Stratford International
Stratford International
2010
In 2010, Brian Clarke developed a stained glass window design proposal for the newly constructed Stratford International train station. The station was opened in 2009 as part of the regeneration efforts in East London and in preparation for the 2012 Olympic Games held at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Situated on the High Speed 1 railway line between London St Pancras International and Ebbsfleet International, Stratford International is part of the Channel Tunnel Rail Link, a 109.9-kilometre high-speed railway connecting London to the Channel Tunnel.
Stratford International is an example of an uncovered 'box station'. Unlike traditional underground stations, the platforms are not concealed but are excavated below ground level and left exposed. Designed by architect Mark Fisher, the station features a steel and glass bridge spanning the tracks, described by the architect as ‘a big, generous light-filled bridge of steel and glass crossing the tracks and spanning the box.’
For this bridge, Clarke envisioned a series of large-scale stained glass panels designed to cover its glass surfaces. The panels feature oversized foliage set against a blue background that reproduces the texture of close-up brushstrokes. The foliage motif, a recurring element in Clarke’s work, had been previously employed in the Ascot Grandstand project as well as in the monumental, standalone piece Lamina.