A familiar sight from millions of computer screens has been transformed into a work of art.
Southampton Solent University fine art student Owen T Douglass has created MEGA-Bliss 5000, a three-metre wide, four-metre deep sculpture based on the iconic Windows XP Bliss wallpaper.
The piece is part of Solent University’s Summer Degree Show 2026, taking place from June 5.
Mr Douglass said: "I've always been interested in things people instantly recognise.
READ MORE: Mother and daughter open paint studio in Southampton
"The Bliss wallpaper is something almost everyone has seen, even if they don't realise it.
"I wanted to bring it into the real world and let people physically interact with it."
The original Bliss image, taken in January 1996 by former National Geographic photographer Charles O’Rear in California’s Sonoma County, became one of the most viewed photographs in history after Microsoft acquired it in 2000.
Now reimagined as a physical sculpture, Mr Douglass’ playful and interactive piece stays true to his style, blending humour and culture with large-scale installations.
Past works have included a Microsoft error screen sculpture which went viral on TikTok and Instagram, helping inspire his final project.
Visitors are encouraged to "touch grass" through the installation, which invites them to sit, relax, and enjoy time away from screens.
Its creation took five months.
Mr Douglass said: "Seeing people come and sit on it, eat lunch, or just spend a few minutes there has been amazing.
"That's exactly what I wanted – something that's fun and makes people feel good."
READ MORE: City centre bar set to reopen as après-ski-themed venue
Made with timber, recycled workbenches, and 1,364 hand-placed artificial grass tiles for a pixelated effect, the hill is backed by an enlarged print of the original Bliss sky.
Above, suspended wooden digital icons, a wooden cursor, and a recreation of the iconic bouncing DVD screensaver round out the piece.
He also reflected on the personal impact of his Solent journey.
Mr Douglass said: "It’s been three years of experimenting and trying new ideas with really supportive staff.
"I’ve had the freedom to make work that feels true to me.
Share