Random International: The Rain Room

The Rain Room by Random International

Ironically, it is a typically grey and drizzly afternoon as I walk through East London in search of The Barbican Centre, the home of  The Rain Room. The exhibition, by Random International has sparked the curiosity of many Londoners and tourists, who have flocked to come and see it. Unfortunately, yes this means you can expect long queues, because only five people can experience the installation at any one time. This should not put you off however, The Rain Room experience is pretty unique and an unusual way to spend a couple of hours in this increasingly commercial capital.

Having spent about an hour waiting (TIP: take a friend so one of you can nip to the Costa in the centre for coffee and cake while the other one keeps your place in the queue!), it was finally time to walk into the Curve, one of the biggest exhibition rooms at the Barbican Centre. The walls, floor and ceiling are painted jet black and the air conditioning provides a cool breeze. The pitter-patter of water soon turns into a full on downpour as you keep walking.

Curiosity turns into realisation as you see people taking snaps on their Iphones whilst standing under torrential rain. It is a surreal experience when you are standing in the middle of the installation, remaining bone dry while the rain pours all around you. Just don’t move too quickly or you might feel a splash. About fifteen short minutes later I find myself back in the East End of London, now in search of Brick Lane, one of my favourite places to grab a bite to eat. The rain is pouring all around me, only this time, I am drenched!