Solaris Nexum
Solaris Nexum explores our changing connection to the sun through technological shifts of various ages. Through a double-sided surface of suspended mirrors, Solaris Nexum is a helical structure projected onto catenary arches, allowing continually changing reflections in response to the shifting light.
Solaris Nexum - Two-way polycarbonate mirror, clear polycarbonate, steel, glass. 20.5m x 4.5m 4.5m. 2021
Carr of Torus Torus Studios approaches celestial architecture, advances in optics, and renewable energy as paradigm-shifting technologies, drawing together periods of human history with a potential future for humankind.
Firstly, the instinctive, Neolithic era, when humankind was rooted to the environment and in greater connection to the ebb and flow of natural cycles. The panel shape of the mirrors utilises static and dynamic triangles from sacred geometry to acknowledge the platonic elements while giving a sense of movement, evolution and the perpetual change of natural systems. The sunlight at the summer solstice is directed through a column of glass beads, echoing the function of Neolithic sites such as Newgrange. The solar column is placed at the centre of the overall form of the sculpture; the outer shell of the form represents the celestial firmament and our then skyward-looking nature.
Secondly, the analytical, mechanistic and deterministic view of the renaissance brought about by the shift from a geocentric perspective of the universe to a heliocentric viewpoint, bringing with it significant religious repercussions. Two-way mirrors have been utilised to reference Newtonian optics that allowed mankind to delve into the microcosm, with the inner mirror surface of the sculpture representing our inward-looking phase of understanding. The structure has been divided based on a five-fold repetition of the DNA double helix, to highlight our perceived shift of place in the cosmos, the spiral intersections suggestive of natural forms. Reminiscent of apparatus for astronomical observations, the layered mirrors reference moiré patterns, parallax and illusion to remind us to question what we believe to be true.
Thirdly, a representation of our current state of being and an acknowledgment of our advances in technology and material science. We are equipped with the knowledge of our impact on the environment and have the means to exist responsibly, respectfully and intelligently.
This third age is reflected in the structure of the sculpture which is informed by sun towers; the angling of the mirrored panels pay homage to solar panel orientation, the tracking of the sun and celestial bodies, further highlighting our solar connection. The use of double-sided mirrored surfaces references the inward and outward nature of societal views, a movement in focus between the macrocosm and the microcosm, and brings weight to the value of the truth contained within a multitude of perspectives. Similarly, through the use of two-way mirrors, the environment, the building and the viewer are reflected in the sculpture, while being reflected in itself. As our vision is challenged through the changing light, Solaris Nexum provokes a perspective shift from a control of the environment to being responsive to it. It is an invitation to move towards a symbiotic and holistic approach to our environment, with a view to achieving a technological utopia in balance with nature.
The sculpture serves as a monument to solar connection through the ages of technology, encourages us to retain a respect for nature and to intelligently live in harmony with its resources, moving towards a technologically symbiotic age. Carr invites us to look both inwards and outwards to embrace all spheres of being into one harmonious whole.
The above animations describe how the structure of Solaris Nexum was developed by overlaying five helical forms (implying dna) over the main catenary forms. The rotating triangular panels were then placed at the intersection points of the helical forms and catenary arches and then orientated to a single point using point attractors. The animation left is a fly through of the proposed structure taken from the CAD model which informed all measurements, orientation and engineering for the project. The CAD was carried out by Colin Rennie.
Commissioned by Grangegorman Development Agency for TU Dublin, Ireland.
Supported by Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios, Colin Rennie, Cconsult Engineering Design Limited, Blended Management Group, Renée Pfister Art & Gallery Consultancy, London, Architectural Metalworkers Ltd, Ormiston Wire Ltd, Bay Plastics Ltd, Abseil Access, W.H.Scott and Son Engineers Ltd, Constantine Ltd. Music: bensound.com.
Images/Video: ©Alexandra Carr. All rights reserved.