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Projection Art Show WaterWork Returns to Light Up Austin’s Historic Seaholm Intake

Presented by The Trail Conservancy and Design Austin, the two-night show merges technology, art and nature along the Butler Trail

WaterWork, a two-night event Sept. 26–27, returns for the second year with video projections by 15 artists using projection mapping and sound to transform the Seaholm Intake Facility’s façade into a large-scale canvas.
WaterWork, a two-night event Sept. 26–27, returns for the second year with video projections by 15 artists using projection mapping and sound to transform the Seaholm Intake Facility’s façade into a large-scale canvas. (Photo courtesy of The Trail Conservancy)

Austin’s Seaholm Intake Facility will once again become a stage for art, light, and sound when “WaterWork” returns Sept. 26–27. Hosted by The Trail Conservancy and Design Austin, the art show transforms the historic power plant’s façade into a projection-mapped canvas showcasing the work of 15 local artists.

The event debuted last year as what co-curator Emily Eisenhart calls “a total creative experiment.” The idea came to her on a spring architectural boat tour of Lady Bird Lake while she admired the concrete landmark.

“I was looking at that façade thinking, ‘I know we can’t paint it because it’s a historical building, but could we project on it with temporary art?’” Eisenhart recalled. “It was kind of a wild idea.”

That vision took shape with the support of The Trail Conservancy, which manages the 10-mile Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, and Design Austin, a cultural nonprofit that celebrates the impact of design through programming. 

The video projection “Native Waters” by Essentials Creative during WaterWork 2024.
The video projection “Native Waters” by Essentials Creative during WaterWork 2024. (Photo courtesy of Originator Studios & Design Austin)

Architecture as a canvas

Fifteen Austin artists have each created two- to three-minute video works tailored to the architecture of Seaholm. Some pieces emphasize details like the window wells and stonework, while others expand across the entire façade, using projection mapping to transform the building into a dynamic canvas.

Eisenhart noted that the lineup spans a wide range of disciplines, from analog artists and painters to digital and stop-motion creators. For many, she added, it’s the largest platform they’ve ever worked on.

All of the video pieces will also include sound, with some artists collaborating with Austin musicians to compose original scores, said Tanya Zal, programming and development coordinator for AIA Austin and Design Austin. Attendees on shore can stream audio on their phones, while boat cruise passengers will hear it through onboard speakers.

“WaterWork is a testament to what’s possible when artists, designers, and civic organizations come together with a shared vision,” said Ingrid Spencer, executive director of AIA and Design Austin. “Working alongside The Trail Conservancy and this incredible group of Austin-based artists allows us to reimagine public space in a way that sparks wonder, reflection, and deeper connection to the environment around us.”

The video projection “Layers Like Limestone” by Riley Williamson and Sara Aleyce Roma of Favored Channels during WaterWork 2024.
The video projection “Layers Like Limestone” by Riley Williamson and Sara Aleyce Roma of Favored Channels during WaterWork 2024. (Photo by Ryan Conway)

See the show by land or lake

The projections are free to view from multiple vantage points along the Butler Trail, including Auditorium Shores and the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge. For a more immersive experience, Design Austin is offering ticketed boat cruises that sold out quickly last year. Many attendees are expected to watch from their own kayaks and paddleboards.

“WaterWork celebrates the creative heart of Austin by bringing together art, nature, and community for a truly unforgettable experience,” said Julie Fisher, CEO of The Trail Conservancy. “Events like this beautifully demonstrate that the Trail is more than just a city park – it’s a hub of culture, collaboration, and inspiration for all Austinites.”

For Eisenhart, the event is also about perspective. “I hope people are reminded that we live in a pretty unique urban and natural environment that’s right up against each other,” she said. “I hope it encourages people to notice and appreciate Austin with new eyes.”

“WaterWork” takes place Sept. 26–27. Viewing from the shore is free; boat cruise tickets are available at designaustin.org/waterwork.

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