Kinetic art pieces have always inspired awe and wonder as these installations move in hypnotic fashion, keeping viewers enthralled for minutes on end. Conrad Manila starts the 28th edition of its acclaimed Of Arts and Wine (OAAW) series by featuring the works of 3rd generation jeweler and sculptor Ivan Co.
“Conrad Manila aims to start the year remarkably strong with this unique and marvelous roster of artworks as we strengthen and elevate our commitment to provide our patrons with touches of luxury and splendor this 2024. These are best exemplified in Ivan Co’s artistic mastery, which has also brought pride to the country, being the only Filipino invited to be featured in The Official Platinum Jubilee Edition to celebrate the late Queen Elizabeth II’s 70-year reign,” Conrad Manila general manager Fabio Berto said.
Using semi-precious gems and his own gold alloy, Ivan’s pieces employ gravity and balance to create sculptures that mesmerize viewers. The artist’s 10 pieces conjure grandeur and elegance with their fine construction and highly-polished finish while the use of extremely thin metal give the pieces an ethereal, almost otherworldly feel.
The Orbis pieces draw attention to intricate worlds within worlds as gemstones act like celestial bodies that spin freely on different planes while sharing the same axis. Meanwhile, the Finestra Series showcases intricate pendulums that swing in perfect balance. Finally, the Labyrinthian is the largest piece Ivan has created at over 5 feet tall. He shared that it took him 3 years to complete the piece due to its complexity.
Ivan hopes that the viewers would find inspiration from his pieces, noting that he wanted to touch as many senses as possible. Aside from sight, he also wanted to include touch and with the Labyrinthian, even the sense of hearing with the use of chimes which ring out with every crystal ball that drops over them.
“All of human creation and concepts have been born in part from the depths of human imagination, molded into being through creativity and ingenuity. Imagination is arguably the most powerful and influential aspect of our consciousness. These swiveling pieces came from that innate calling to think, explore, and create outside the limits of what the eye can see. As I have created and forged complex worlds in intricate details, I found moments of solace and respite from reality,” Ivan shared.
