This immersive installation, designed for Swarovski, explores the relationship between the refractive qualities of crystal, light, nature and architecture. Inspired by the optical properties of water particles in the sky, which form ice crystals, the installation recreates the illusion of the 'ice halo' phenomenon in the sub-tropical climate of Miami Beach. Atmospheric phenomena such as ice halos, were used as part of weather lore as an empirical means of weather forecasting before meteorology was developed.
Parhelia, derived from the Greek for "Beside the Sun", incorporates over 1 million Swarovski crystals in an architectural structure nearly 6m high and features crystallised halos that appear to move about the exhibition space. Inside the structure, a geometric design is reflected infinitely in the honeycomb crystal panelling. A skylight allows natural light to interact with the architecture, thereby creating a dynamic visual display that changes from day to night. Parhelia explores the sensory influence of crystal, and their phototropic effect on humans.