The Janus Chairs By Ryder Architecture

Walkers can take the weight off their feet and sit down in style at The Janus Chairs artwork at Kielder Water & Forest Park in Northumberland, designed by Ryder Architecture.

Located at Plashetts and designed by Newcastle based Ryder Architecture, the artwork consists of three large rotating seats that offer seating, shelter and views across Kielder Water. Based on the idea of flower petals in different stages of unfolding, the seats can be arranged in a social group and can be turned to face each other, the sun or the desired view.

The Janus Chairs artwork was aptly named after Janus, the Roman God of gates, doors, beginnings and endings. The namesake for the month of January, he was often depicted with two heads, one facing forwards and one facing behind and the unique chairs can be manoeuvred to spin round and face different directions too. Janus� two faces were to regard what is behind and look towards what lies ahead.

The Janus Chairs are one of six new structures aimed at providing places for visitors to stop, take in the view and shelter on their walk or cycle. The new sculptures will add to the award winning art and architecture programme at the Park which has been running for more than ten years. In an area of 16 square miles there are 20 pieces to see, including Kielder Observatory and James Turrell�s Skyspace, making the Park the largest outdoor public art gallery in the UK.

Shona Hendrick, events and activities development officer with Kielder Partnership, said: �For most people January is the time to start afresh and get outdoors and active. We�re encouraging visitors to the Park to blow away the cobwebs and try a four and a half mile walk or cycle to the Janus Chairs on the north shore of Kielder Water.�

http://www.ryderarchitecture.comPosted by Femke de Wild | Photos courtesy of Kielder Partnership