Chasing rainbows

It's therefore slightly disappointing to be left wondering whether they've actually forgotten to install it, for while your eyes cast about the gloomily lit space you won't immediately notice the potentially-hazardous-if-touched artwork faintly glittering upon the surface of the floor.

What looks like a pale, diffused pool of light is actually a thick dusting of tiny, glass-like beads and it's only when you stand very close and slowly walk around it that you can see the rainbow band of colours glide across its lustrous surface.

If you're still fascinated by oily puddles on the pavement, then you might find this bright emanation endlessly fascinating. Otherwise, you might be disappointed that a space that resembles a mini car park hasn't been employed to better effect.

You could say that all of Gallaccio's work feels a bit like chasing rainbows, such is the ephemeral nature of her materials. Her beautiful flower installations inevitably decay, her huge ice blocks melt and her fruit cornucopias quickly go putrid.

But Gallaccio is an artist who employs her themes in ways that are often so literal and one-dimensional that it's not only the materials that are quick to fade.

Until Sep 16, The Hospital, 24 Endell Street WC2, Mon to Fri 10am to 6pm, Sat noon to 6pm, free. Tel: 020 7170 9100. Tube: Covent Garden

Anya Gallacio: Chasing Rainbows
The Hospital
Endell Street, WC2H 9HQ