John Atkin

This commission reflects a landmark gateway set of architectural gates, which are bespoke to the locale of Stourport on Severn in the West Midlands.

 

The redeveloped retail site was formerly a carpet factory, where the production of carpets dated back several generations. The industrial! inventory of cogs, levers, and pulleys associated with the production of carpets, as well as other pieces of equipment became the focus of my research. Stourport is also renowned for its canal heritage, which stimulated commerce throughout UK     and overseas. The canal systems have recently been restored to their former Georgian splendor, creating an exciting heritage destination point for visitors to Stourport on Severn. This history is also significant to the research that fostered the development of my gateway sculpture, The Wheels of Time.

 

The use of different grades of stainless steel, as wel I as direction of polishing, deliberately creates increased levels of perceived space within the composition of the sculpture. The mirror-polished stainless steel reflects the, colours, and vibrancy of pedestrian traffic, shimmering like, reflections in the waters of the canals. Two thrust bearings facilitate ease of operation of the 3-ton gates; via stainless steel cylinders that contain carefully calibrated thrust bearings. The opening of the gates has clear analogies to the Lock systems, that govern the flow of water through canal gates.

 

The success of the project was also, due to my close working partnership with the construction consultants, Barr Ltd as well as the architects, A,&Q Partnership