Azure – September 2019

(Amelia) #1

Final Thought


To create a place where mere mortals can contem-
plate and even communicate with the Almighty of
their choosing is one of design’s oldest challenges.
No matter how you conceive of Him, Her or It, the
Divine is incorporeal and, paradoxically, omnipresent.
Enter a temple, church or mosque and the resident of
honour is absent, yet their presence is felt. Spaces
that reflect a higher order rely on harmony and balance
to make perfection material, an imperative that can be
seen throughout history, from the geometric patterns
in medieval walls and windows to the clean lines and
symmetry of modern places of worship.
Some architectural traditions become so iconic that
to change them would be sacrilege. In the aftermath
of the fire that destroyed the roof of the Notre-Dame
cathedral in Paris, architects from around the globe
proposed redesigns that included adding a green-
house, installing a swimming pool and replicating the
flames in glistening gold leaf. The earthly powers that
be decided to play it safe and restore the building’s
“last known visual state,” but the challenge to rethink
our conception of sacred space continues to inspire.
Dutch artist Levi van Veluw’s non-denominational,
site-specific installation at the Tenuta Dello Scompiglio
in Northern Italy accommodates the practice of faith
through an interior that is both familiar and alien. Taking
inspiration from the structure of the tabernacle (the
Old Testament dwelling place of God), his immersive
design leads visitors through three dimly lit blue–
black chambers lined with ornamental patterns that
echo familiar forms of venerable decor, with a subtle
sci-fi twist (the Church of Scientology also provided
inspiration). Offset by piles of raw coal and a stream
of fragrant water, the arcane geometry of his Sanctum
is a testament to our incessant quest for a fundamental
order that lies eternally beyond our grasp.

Levi van Veluw’s Sanctum is on view until September
22 at Tenuta Dello Scompiglio in Capannori, Italy.

AN IMMERSIVE INSTALLATION IN ITALY
HIGHLIGHTS THE ART OF CREATING
SACRED SPACES
WORDS _Terence Dick
PHOTOGRAPH _Guido Mencari

Divine


Intervention


098 _ _SEPT 2019

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