Fitzrovia Left and Found Bat Sculpture
The Fitzrovia Left and Found Bat Sculpture aims to address the endangered habitat of the brown long-eared bat (Plecotus auritus) whilst proposing a collective response to the threat facing public libraries by current policy.
Bats possess a strict social structure in which mediators link different communities and educators pass on knowledge between generations. Informed by this observation, the Left and Found space within the inhabitable sculpture, mediates between people by providing a communicative and educational node in the city centre.
The sculpture’s morphology reflects a spatial quality that appeals to both mammal clients. Study models of the bat wing explored the anatomical and physical properties of this flight and shelter appendage. These properties were reiterated in the form of multiple pitches to provide ample warm spots for roosting, as well as layered spaces to provide cooler chambers for hibernation.
The bat sculpture seeks to encourage migration of the brown long-eared bat from Regents Park to Fitzroy Square. Bats like to travel along linear routes when foraging and will often follow watercourses or hedgerows along their commuter routes. Strategically placed green roofs between Regents Park and Fitzroy Square will house insect hotels and should provide a commuter route rich for foraging, leading the client to its new home.
