Pangaea art installation for Atlas restaurant at Rockliffe Hall
Pangaea is a one-of-a-kind, site-specific art installation by Jade Mellor. It was created for Atlas, the new restaurant at Rockliffe Hall from Maria and James Close.
Jade’s inspiration comes from alluvial pebbles, the soft, water-worn forms shaped by river currents. This is combined with the macro concept of Pangaea and a feeling of connection between distant places. To translate Jade’s usual smaller scale of her signature brooches and jewellery to nearly three metres for the statement artwork, she collaborated with experienced artisan blacksmiths at their Cheshire workshop.
Over 450 individual brass "pebbles" are arranged in a rhythmic, organic sequence on the ceiling of the champagne bar to lead guests in directly from the entrance. Each pebble element was formed with a gentle curve and individually textured by hand with six different finishes to reflect the light in different ways.
Inspired by geology and weathering from the elements, the finishes include natural patination from organic rainfall and desert winds through sand blasting. A select few are left untreated to potentially develop their own rich patina in situ over time. The pieces creates a warm welcoming glow reminiscent of hundreds of flickering candles flames or a glittering sunset on water in this new intimate restaurant.
