Winner of the Guildford Design Award for Public Art 2021

The Optohedron

  • β€œThe Optohedron sculpture is inspired by the act of viewing, thinking about seeing as the fundamental interface between the person and the world. Whilst exploring this idea, I investigated optics, the science of light, which took me to an ancient instrument, the Kaleidoscope.”

    The Optohedron is constructed from weathering steel which forms a protective layer of rust on its surface. Between the logs are small gaps for creatures to inhabit. The individual cells are packed with locally sourced hazel logs to create a solid surface. Concealed within the packed timber are three kaleidoscopes, each one orientated to view a different element of the surrounding nature.

  • The Optohedron is part of the Inspiring Views programme to reveal lost views and engage those who do not normally access the countryside. This project has also created new Chalk scrapes planted with Horseshoe Vetch to attract rare native butterflies including the Small Blue.
    Thanks to all those who volunteered their time to help with various bits of this wonderful project or donated to the crowdfunding page, and to the Albury Estate.

    Inspiring Views

    Photography: John Miller, Will Nash

2020
Weathering Steel, Hazel, Stainless Steel
2m x 2.4m
Newlands Corner, Surrey Hills