COS + paul cocksedge install gravity-shifting light artwork at coal drops yard store

international fashion brand COS has collaborated with british designer paul cocksedge on a site-specific work for its coal drops yard store in london — set within the landmark heatherwick studio-designed lifestyle district. unveiled in december 2018, ‘orbits’ is a light-based artwork that collocates the natural and manmade — a theme that embodies COS’ autumn winter 2018 collection. ‘there’s a joy in experimenting with gravity, and letting light find its own form,’ says cocksedge.

all images © mark cocksedge

‘orbits’ comprises a series of six natural rocks suspended from malleable hoops of light, which have been fabricated in stainless steel and LED. ‘light is often held in place or contained in rigid structures, but here we have explored softness and flexibility,’ cocksedge continues. ‘orbits has a sense of calm and quiet, which we hope offers a contrast to the busy surroundings of king’s cross.‘ each pendant highlights a unique relationship with gravity, where illumination is manipulated by the weight of the rock beneath.

the installation marks the first partnership between COS and cocksedge, a collaboration which came as ‘a natural fit due to the synergy between the concept and our collection’ said karin gustafsson, COS creative director. ‘at COS we feel coal drop’s yard is the perfect location to offer an experience where art is at the forefront and the inspirations behind the collection are exhibited next to the garments.’ the coal drops yard store has been conceived as a multifunctional platform that hosts the work of established and emerging artists, simultaneously bringing together independent publishing houses, wellbeing and lifestyle brands, and handpicked edits from the COS collection. the installation will remain on view for six months.