Following an invited competition, Rona Smith was selected to create a new work for the north window of Lumen United Reformed Church, part of an award-winning scheme for rebuilding the church by Theis and Khan Architects.
North Elevation is an 8 metre tall bronze screen suspended within the alcove of the window, gently arcing into the interior space. The screen’s geometric spiral design is traditionally found in many sacred contexts including Christian, Islamic, Greek and Roman architecture as well as Hindu and Buddhist designs. The work thus reflects the United Reformed Church’s tradition of open, inclusive and accessible worship. As the church will be used for Christian services as well as a variety of community activities, the commissions embody these values, being universal and accessible in both design and imagery.
In 2009 the artworks by Rona Smith and Alison Wilding were nominated for an Art and Christianity Enquiry Award for art in a religious context, and short-listed for the ACE/RIBA Award for Religious Architecture. The redevelopment of the church won the 2009 RIBA London Award.
