Tensile is collaborating on a lighting and art installation at Steam Mill Lane in Sydney’s Darling Harbour precinct.
The project involves the installation of a catenary light system and several 3D geometric artworks featuring designs by Adelaide-based artist Peta Kruger.
The installation consists of eight sculptural pieces suspended at intervals along the laneway. These are divided into three zones – with bolder and more complex works at Zone 1 (inviting people to enter the space) through to smaller and softer pieces at Zone 3.
Tensile turns vision into reality
Our brief was to supply structural engineering services to design and construct the geometric bases for the designs, install the lights and cables and organise the power connection.
Essentially, our job was to take Ms Kruger’s artistic vision and turn it into reality. Our “willingness to work with artists to realise various creative projects” is the reason why we were selected for the project.
Viewing after dark
At night, our carefully-concealed lighting will illuminate the laneway. This will enable viewing of the pieces after dark, while eliminating the effect of glare. Since the lights will be concealed from all angles, the artworks can also be viewed from above, such as from the vantage point of upper-level apartments.
We’ve also incorporated flexibility into the installation, allowing it to be expanded or reduced later on.
The pieces have been designed to complement surrounding laneway signage. Ms Kruger says her inspiration for the boldly-coloured artworks came from night-time cityscapes, lanterns and abstract paintings.
Special project considerations
In projects such as these, we aim to reduce the visible impact of the supporting structure. This can be done by using cables that appear light and unobtrusive, in effect belying their strength and longevity, and soft lighting that is subtle rather than glaring.
Of particular note in this new installation is the way in which the structural elements of the project, such as cables and light-fittings, will be concealed by the geometric metal artworks. This means the space will have relevance during the day, unlike many catenary light projects that are designed largely for night-time use.
If you are interested in finding out more or discussing a catenary light project you have in mind, feel free to get in touch with our team.
