David Best: London 1666

London 1666 is a 120-metre long sculpture of 17th-century London skyline on the River Thames. It will burn in a dramatic retelling of the story of the Great Fire of London.

London 1666 is an extraordinary 120-metre long sculpture of 17th-century London skyline on the River Thames. It will burn in a dramatic retelling of the story of the Great Fire of London of September 1666.

London 1666, designed by David Best, produced by Artichoke. Photo Matthew Andrews

It is a collaboration between American ‘burn’ artist David Best and Artichoke. The project has involved months of work and participation with local schools and young Londoners.

London 1666, designed by David Best, produced by Artichoke. Photo Matthew Andrews

The installation is part of “London’s Burning”, a contemporary festival of spectacular free art events in the City, Southbank and Bankside, marking the 350th anniversary of the Great Fire of London and addressing its contemporary resonance with themes including displacement, disaster and the resilience of the urban metropolis.

London 1666, designed by David Best, produced by Artichoke. Photo Matthew Andrews