Golden Apples of the Sun is artist Shezad Dawood’s response to Homerton College’s unique history and context. Commissioned as part of the new Dining Hall extension, it comprises three works that link internal and external elements of the architecture and celebrate the College’s ongoing development and approach.

A seven metre artwork sits within the new reception area. Made from ceramic tiles hand painted by the artist, it connects the famous orchard, the College’s Arts and Crafts architecture, and A Florentine Procession by Pre Raphaelite painter Jane Benham Hay, which is held in the College collection.

Linked to this central work is a series of hand glazed bricks incorporated into the elevation facing Harrison Drive. These create an “extended horizon”, drawing people towards the College, revealing the internal garden, and highlighting the site’s architectural and design history.

These two physical elements are reflected in the third part – an experimental film documenting the making of Golden Apples of the Sun and linking it to The New School, a recently discovered historic film about progressive education made in the orchard with the College as a backdrop.

Images: ‘Golden Apples of the Sun’ by Shezad Dawood
Photographs: Commission Projects
Film Still: Courtesy of the artist