Copenhagen has a new temporary landmark.

8 metres high and 15 metres long, the artwork rotates and with its 13 red neon letters it forms a clear message: Understanding.

The initial plan was to present the work last summer at the cancelled Roskilde Festival no. 50. Now, it lights up the December darkness in Copenhagen as an artistic gesture to the public spirit we all show at the moment.

The piece is created by the world-famous and award-winning British artist Martin Creed, and it has previously been raised in Brooklyn, New York, with Manhattan's skyline as a backdrop.

Chief curator at Roskilde Festival, Signe Brink Wehl, says:

"We still have to limit our social circles but a piece like 'Understanding' allows us to go for a walk with our nearest and dearest and come together for a message we can all share."

A bright appeal
From 21 December, the enormous artwork can be experienced at Ofelia Plads in central Copenhagen, with the Royal Danish Playhouse to one side and the Opera House to the other. All along the harbour of Copenhagen, Copenhageners will be greeted by the illuminated appeal to show understanding of each other.

The installation is an interpretation of the iconic phrase peace, love and understanding, and the piece highlights the latter word because - according to the artist - it contains all three messages in one.

Chief curator at Roskilde Festival, Signe Brink Wehl, says:

"Art always plays a crucial role at Roskilde Festival, and all installations at the festival function both as points of orientation and reflection rooms. 'Understanding' by Martin Creed has only become more relevant to the present times, and we are happy to give the Copenhageners a bright artwork in these dark times."

'Work No. 2630 UNDERSTANDING' was initiated by Roskilde Festival and curated by Creator Projects and raised with help from The New Carlsberg Foundation, The Augustinus Foundation, The Royal Danish Theatre and Jeudan. With additional support from Hauser & Wirth and Gavin Brown's Enterprise.

Facts: Martin Creed
Martin Creed (b. 1968) is a British artist who lives and works in London. He graduated from the acclaimed Slade School of Art at University College London in 1990, and in 2001 he won the prestigious Turner Prize with 'Work No. 227: The lights going on and off'. His work includes films, installations, paintings, theatre and live-action sculptures.