This is the first look at what will become the spectacular centrepiece of a £765,000 art scheme in the heart of the Highland capital.
A see-saw viewing platform will tilt towards the water as visitors gather on it to take in the stunning spectacle of the River Ness vista.
A site for the huge structure has not been finalised yet – but one of the preferred locations is beside Ardross Street, which would offer views of Inverness Castle and beyond.
It is hoped that the novel artwork, along with other viewing areas on the revamped riverside, will attract thousands more tourists every year, providing a huge spin-off for the city.
The tilting pier, which slants as much as 15 degrees thanks to the use of sophisticated hydraulic technology, is officially called The Gathering Place.
It is one of six projects developed as part of the River Connections Public Art Scheme in association with the ongoing flood protection contract.
Other schemes will create informal riverside relaxation areas and special guided walking trails around the city.
There will also be a large sculpture taking its inspiration from the Great Glen, which runs from the city to Fort William.
The artworks were given a mixed reaction from the public yesterday.
Some felt that they were “unnecessary”, but one woman said that it would “be fabulous”.
Work is ongoing to finalise the details of the sites of the schemes and some will require planning permission.
But it hoped that the pieces could be complete by the middle of next year.
One work, River Connections by Aberfeldy artist Mary Bourne, is already being incorporated into the city’s flood scheme.
Councillor Ken Gowans, chairman of Inverness City Arts, said: “There is a big difference between art in public and public art. I want this to be art of the people and for the people.
“We are no foisting this on everyone, we want to hear what people think about it.
“One of the fears people had is that it would be something outrageous or elitist. I wanted to ensure that we have art that everyone can enjoy.”
Of the see-saw platform, he added: “I think it is very dramatic, striking, beautiful and simple. It is something that will greatly enhance the river.
“This will be unique to Inverness. It is the signature piece for the city.”
But he also acknowledged that siting the platform would be “difficult”.
He said: “It is so dramatic that wherever we put it could be controversial.”
The art programme received £305,000 from Creative Scotland, as well as funding from Highland Council, the Inverness Common Good Fund and Highlands and Islands Enterprise.
The public got their chance to view the scheme at a one-day public exhibition at Trinity Church yesterday.
One woman who attended said: “I think it is going to be fabulous.
“The Gathering Place is the best thing. It will be an ambitious statement for the city and I think it will attract people here.”
But riverside resident Kate Storrar said: “I do not see the necessity. They say it will enhance the riverside but I don’t know why they ruined it in the first place with the floodworks.”
And another local said: “It is very poor. I think they would be better cleaning the streets.
“One of the art pieces looked like a bus stop and I think the platform might be a safety risk.”