Richard Sweeney

#Reflection

ZHENGZHOU, CHINA

Drawing inspiration from nature, London-based artist Richard Sweeney is regarded world-round for his intricate modular paper sculptures of spectacular elegance and form. Sweeney was engaged by UAP to create a bespoke sculptural commission for Province Midtown in Zhengzhou, China. Titled Reflection, Sweeney’s artwork is both appealing and pragmatic – a beautiful intervention in space which is at once sun shelter, communal meeting space and captivating artwork.

At an inspiring scale, the gentle and graceful structure spans more than 12 by 11 metres, making it Sweeney’s largest permanent sculptural work to date. Embracing an explorative and experimental approach to design, the collaboration has enabled Sweeney’s practice to branch beyond the confines of his typical, ephemeral materials, realising an equally as elegant form in mirror polished stainless steel.

Showcasing Sweeney’s signature curved pleating technique, Reflection is an abstract interpretation of movement and fluidity, inspired by natural forms and motion.

My intention overall was to produce a piece with a gentle, contemplative quality – a graceful structure that appears at one with its environment, which I hope will give much pleasure to future residents and visitors.
Richard Sweeney