John Atkin

This sculpture was commissioned through PlanAct (London) on behalf of Beetham Organization for the tallest tower in the North West of England.  This was an open competition, which facilitated the making of a scale model of the proposed sculpture as well as PhotoShop elevations of what the sculpture would look like within the atrium space.

 

It was important to allow for the radiating scheme of materials and textures within the space, as well as make a sculpture that was cognisant of the history of the locale.  It is a multi-use building with an atrium space that runs throughout the core of the architecture, delivering unique views of the artwork from all 40 levels of the property. Linking the new development to the Port of Liverpool was fundamental to underlining the City’s continuous relationship with the global trade.

 

The sculpture is derived from industrial forms associated with the shipbuilding industry of Liverpool’s heritage and acts as a focal point and meeting place for people who use the building. The use of corten steel reflected the heavy industry of the area, and the use of stainless steel located the sculpture within the present day.

Innovative installation skills were required for the installation of this sculpture within the already constructed lobby space, where access was limited to a revolving glass door. The sculpture was therefore made in sections and a 8 x 6 ft glass panel was removed from the front of the building to allow for logistical access to the site.  The sculpture was then assembled from 6 main sections and welded together in-situ.