In a remarkable fusion of art and architecture, the SODO + Marriott project in Calgary showcases the extraordinary photography of Thomas Dempsey. His captivating image of the jagged, billion-year-old rock formations from Glacier National Park, Montana, is now a permanent installation on the façade of the SODO Residences. This impressive structure, skillfully constructed by Axiom Builders, features two large lightboxes that measure 19.6 by 8.4 meters and 16.3 by 3.5 meters. They illuminate Dempsey's work at the bustling intersection of 5th St and 10 Ave SW, transforming the building into an urban canvas that blurs the lines between nature and human craftsmanship.
Transferring Dempsey's striking image onto the large-scale glass surfaces required innovative technical approaches. The process involved intricately layering the photograph onto glass using a sophisticated 3D frit technique developed in Germany. This method not only ensured the precision and clarity of the image but also introduced a multi-dimensional effect to the viewing experience. Additionally, specialized LED lighting was integrated to backlight the glass. This setup guarantees evenly distributed light, making the image visually stunning both day and night.
This artistic endeavor is more than just a decorative feature; it represents a deep connection between the ancient natural world and contemporary design. Dempsey's photograph, featured in his "Light Travel: Photography on the Go", book, showcases rocks formed over 1.6 billion years ago, bringing a piece of Earth’s ancient history into the heart of Calgary. The SODO + Marriott project stands as a testament to artistic expression in architectural design, creating spaces that not only inspire but also pay homage to the timeless beauty of nature.