Aqualina
Drawing inspiration from the works of architects Philip Johnson and I.M. Pei, artist Mark Turpin has created a provocative structure of complex angles, compelling symbolism, and meticulous craftsmanship.
"It is divine," said the captivated collector, just before she purchased Aqualina. Now, in keeping with our tradition of showing you the style and vision that our clients have displayed, below we present Aqualina as it lives today in the home of the collector.
For more details, click on the thumbnail views below.
A treasure trove of variety, the Pine Island Collection has been expanded with the addition of the translucent Aqualina. The delicate filigree of the framework creates a soothing interior, which will lift your spirits. The walls are cloaked in soaring, clear acrylic windows to provide views from inside or out. Designed as an art gallery, Aqualina features three levels connected by an unusual floating staircase. With some solid walls for paintings and niches for sculpture, the intimate gallery is a unique platform for displaying spot lighted miniature art in a setting that is itself bold and artistic rather than simply functional.
Construction is solid pine and poplar. Hinged walls provide access to the interior, which features platinum colored wall coverings, and a two-tone, patterned granite floor. The decorative pool provides a dramatic reflection of the exterior and a cool, inviting view from the interior. Within its wings, the juxtapositional design presents a strong façade on one side, and a narrow entry to a world of brilliant light and height on the other side. Stone textured walls speak of fixed permanence in contrast with the constant motion of the angled space frame, as it chases itself up from the water's edge like soaring doves, higher and higher to the pinnacle of Aqualina.
Dimensions: 25" square base; 50" high.back to top
Aqualina at Home
Our client had amazing things in mind for Aqualina. We designed the structure for flexibility; and below you will see Aqualina providing a museum for a wide range of modern and contemporary miniature art. These new photos show Aqualina in its permanent home — furnished and dressed to the nines by the owner and occupied by the core of the museum's permanent collection. The owner-decorator has offered these thoughts on her goals for Aqualina:
"Aqualina, Mark's extraordinary museum structure, challenged my artistic senses to furnish it with the best. Therein: Replicas of Picasso, Botero, Fornasetti, Sabino and originals of contemporary sculptors and painters. As patrons of miniature art circulate through the galleries, they can rest in the members' lounge on the top floor. The era represented would be the 1930's.
"Eventually, there will be a reception desk at entry, offering information and map pamphlets, manned by a curator."
For more details, click on the thumbnail views below.