Public Art Research Archive, Sheffield Hallam University
PUBLIC ART IN SHEFFIELD

Mike Johnson
'Silver Service', 1999
Ibis Hotel, Shude Hill, Sheffield, S1
stainless steel


Location:
Ibis Hotel, Shude Hill, Sheffield City Centre (A-Z p.5 2G)

Description:
Cutlery has been stamped at regular intervals into the stainless steel tubing with which the gate is constructed. The cutlery was then removed leaving an imprint in the steel and often an intriguing bulge in the reverse side of the tubing. 4.6 m high x 4.6 m wide. Weight: c. 1000 kg.

Commission:
Finnegans Developers. 4 artists were shortlisted to produce a set of gates. They were given an open design brief.

Onsite Plaque:
The onsite nickel plated brass plaque states:
"SILVER SERVICE
BY MICHAEL JOHNSON
THESE GATES WERE COMMISSIONED BY
J.F.FINNEGAN LIMITED
IN CONJUNCTION WITH YORKSHIRE FORWARD
AS PART OF SHEFFIELD CITY COUNCIL'S
PER CENT FOR ARTS POLICY
THESE GATES REFER TO SHEFFIELD'S PRIDE
IN ITS CUTLERY FROM WORKSHOP TO TABLE"

Artist's Comment:
"As the title and dedication (to this piece) suggest, I like the link between the two industries; manufacturing and service, which is made not only through the image, but also with the tactile (nature) and simplicity of design." [1]

References:
[1] Letter from the artist: 24th February, 2000.


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Last updated September 5, 2006