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Beleschenko’s Colored Glass Panes in Liverpool

 

What could colored glass panes, the Beatles, and healing have in common? If you’ve followed my blog for any length of time, you probably know my answer – which is, in short, everything!

The Royal Liverpool University Hospital announced this fall that it has commissioned award-winning glass artist Alexander Beleschenko to create vibrant glass installations for the two main entrances of its new site, slated for completion in 2017. Beleschenko, a lifelong admirer of the Beatles, apparently drew inspiration from his favorite Liverpool band and the legendary music scene as he conceived the project. “Liverpool ruled the music world when I was a boy and that is a big part of my design,” he has noted. Between the two installations, 50 colored glass panes will span approximately 217 square meters (712 square feet) total, resembling modern stained glass windows, with reflections of light that dance with the shifting of the sun throughout the day.

 

 

Yet there is more to this project’s design than whimsical associations with popular music. Beleschenko underlines, “One of the great things about using glass is that people will find their own readings and interpretations as light on the glass constantly changes. The artistic intention is that these artworks signify arrival and generate a positive feeling to those coming into the hospital. The colors are very contrasting and basically prime and bright.”

I frequently think about the relationship between art and healing in my own architectural art glass work; so it’s always inspiring to learn about new projects in which artists and institutions are considering the potential positive impact of materials, color, and light on the individuals who pass through a space. I hope to catch Beleschenko’s finished work one day.

For now, you can read more of my thoughts on the subject of art and healing in past posts here, here, and here.