The artwork is set in granite bases to give the sculptures an elevated effect, as well as three other important components: the form, which is a stainless steel mesh exterior, the glass which lies within the mesh and the digitally-controlled lighting. Even though the two pieces look alike, slight differences are to be seen, creating a visual effect, where the lighting recreates an elegant vessel around the spiral shaped pieces.
Explore
Light Spirals
- Stainless steel, recycled glass, digital LED array
- 2006
- 761 Bay Street, Toronto
About the artwork
About the artist
Since 1970, Peter Powning has lived and worked as an artist in the hills of southern New Brunswick. His life is characterized by intense periods of work preparing for exhibitions and commissions, punctuated by periodic travel. While Powning’s award-winning work is shown internationally, it is permeated with qualities distilled from a life lived close to the silence, space and seasonal rhythms of his home, the fields, forests and shorelines of Canada’s east coast.
Fun facts
- As part of this commission, the developers suggested that when the second tower of the ongoing real estate project is completed, the artist could unveil a second sculpture and pair with the already existing one, mirroring two reverse spirals.
Engagement questions
- In the 70s, futurism was part of contemporary pop-culture. How do you envision futurism today in our 21st century society?
- Do you feel comfortable with light artworks? How can cities best save their energy resources?
