The Jackson Foundation Gallery selected KOOS furniture to design and make a bespoke eight person version of KOOS’s ‘Gallery’ bench. This unique bench sits in the centre of the gallery space in St. Just, Cornwall.
Housed within a massive ex-industrial building in the centre of the thriving former mining town of St Just-in-Penwith, the Jackson Foundation was set up by the leading contemporary artist Kurt Jackson and his wife Caroline to host an annual programme of quality contemporary exhibitions working in partnership with a variety of environmental and non-profit organisations.
This exciting and versatile world class art gallery is free to the public, bridging the gap between public and private art centres and is the ideal venue to view Kurt Jackson’s varied and eclectic range of artistic expression spanning painting, poetry, sculpture, installation and film.
Visitors may sit on either side of the bench and enjoy the art installations at the gallery from a prime position.
Sustainable products, protecting the environment and supporting the local economy are also important to the Jackson Foundation. They have received several prestigious awards for their commitment to these laudable values. Therefore it was crucial that the materials for the product were sourced from within the county and that only natural finishes were used, with no environmental impact.
The final design is a large double-sided bench seat that will sit in the centre of the gallery space. The bench is constructed from English oak with the seat made from wide burrs onto a scorched frame. The black scorched finish on the frame echoes the black industrial beams in the roof space above. The shape mimics the simple framing of the paintings in the gallery and ties the bench to this space. This tactile surface with its rich and deep colour is achieved with no chemicals. Many layers of natural oil and wax protect and preserve the surface, giving it a natural lustre.
All the timber for the project from Pentillie Castle and Estate near St Mellion, Cornwall. Pentillie Castle and Estate is owned by the Coryton family who are committed to the careful management of the 2000 acre site.
If you would like to discuss a commission please e-mail our lead designer Steven Coonick of KOOS furniture for more information.
