Pagoda I

2020

Anodised aluminium, silicone, silver, steel.

Still life photography by John Moore. Model photography by Chris Bulezuik

The Pagoda I necklace was created by Moore in response to an invitation to exhibit in a landmark exhibition called ‘What Colour is Metal?’ curated by Sara Roberts and Dr Cóilín Ó’Dubhghaill. In 2020, when the pandemic took hold, it was the only project to be postponed and not cancelled. The strange new conditions allowed John to focus 100% on the creation of an ambitious new piece, which became a life line. Pagoda I marked a return to his beloved, anodised aluminium after phase of producing monochromatic necklaces predominantly using silver. He re-embraced the freedom to create colourful works on a large scale.

Multiple plates of metal overlap, like scales, feathers or petals, which Moore considers to be among the most spectacular displays of movement, shape and colour in the natural world. It became the first in a series of necklaces inspired, in part, by the sweeping curves of a pagoda parasol.

‘What Colour is Metal?’ opened at Dublin Castle in October 2021 before travelling to the National Design and Craft Gallery, Kilkenny, Ireland in April 2022 and then finally to The Winchester Gallery, October-December 2022.