Media centre

Thursday 1 Nov 2018

New Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired artwork unveiled at Glasgow Central

Region & Route:

Scotland’s Railway: Scotland

A new Charles Rennie Mackintosh-inspired pavilion has been unveiled at Glasgow Central station.

Standing 15ft high and more than six-feet wide, the Light Pavilion is situated on the main concourse of Scotland's busiest station and has been created by Glasgow-based designer Scott Jarvie.

Commissioned by Glasgow Life, the Light Pavilion is part of Mackintosh 150 – a year-long programme throughout 2018 celebrating the 150^th anniversary of the renowned architect’s birth and his remarkable legacy.

Born in Glasgow in June 1868, Charles Rennie Mackintosh was a leading figure in both the Scottish arts and crafts movement and European Art Nouveau.

An architect, designer and artist, Mackintosh left a critical legacy of magnificent works and is considered one of the principal exponents of the Glasgow Style.

Consisting of two seating areas that support an elliptical grid featuring intricate stained-glass detailing, the Light Pavilion combines traditional fine woodworking craftsmanship with cutting-edge modern manufacturing techniques.

Housed under Central Station’s magnificent glass roof, the Light Pavilion draws on Mackintosh’s impressive stained-glass panels and ingenious use of geometric pattern to bring the space alive with light, which changes with the movement of the sun throughout the day.

Scott Jarvie said: “It’s been a privilege to work on this project as part of the city’s Mackintosh 150 celebrations. Thousands of people travel through Central station every day and the Light Pavilion is aimed at providing a place for quiet contemplation within a busy space, where travellers can relax and enjoy the changing light.

“It’s also about inspiring the public to learn more about Mackintosh and the importance of his techniques and his creative legacy.”

 Susan Holden, Glasgow Central station manager, said: “Network Rail is proud to be the custodian of one of Glasgow’s icons, in the form of Central station, and we’re delighted to be able to help celebrate another by supporting the Mackintosh 150 programme.

“The Light Pavilion is a stunning addition to Central’s main concourse and we hope that it will provide a unique place for some of the thousands of people who use the station to take time out and relax during their busy day.”