Artwork Location: Plaza between the Vision Institute and Rehabilitation Institute entrances
At the entrance to UPMC Mercy Pavilion, The Lunar Portal invites visitors to experience the connection between the Earth and the Moon. The artist was interested in the way that natural light from the sun and moon greatly impacts our mental health and wellbeing. The 29½ day lunar cycle is a part of many holidays, calendars, spiritual traditions, and planting seasons across the world. Experiencing the lunar phases reconnects us to the indigenous wisdom of honoring the Moon and encourages us to harness and appreciate our own ebb and flow. Across generations, cultures, and abilities, we are all affected by daylight and moonlight that synchronizes our bodies on an internal, cellular level. The installation brings the Moon from the sky to the ground level; the seemingly unreachable becomes more accessible.
The sculpture is an example of how Neckles draws inspiration from her Afro-Caribbean sensibilities to retell stories of history and mythology. The artist was also inspired by references to the moon and circles that she observed during her site visit to the Hill District.
“I wanted to make a piece that is inclusive to everyone, that creates a sense of belonging, accentuates the space, is entertaining and engaging while also being calming and healing. I hope The Lunar Portal inspires surprise and wonder in visitors while being everchanging to the folks who are there every day.” - Shervone Neckles
Shervone Neckles, The Lunar Portal, 2023. The eight phases of the moon are represented as 10-foot-tall archways along two paths of the plaza. Each archway is made of stainless steel and acrylic with electronically controlled LED lights. The balance of the two materials in each arch represents a different phase of the moon. The full moon is made mostly of acrylic and LED, while the new moon is made mostly of stainless steel. From dusk to dawn, the lights are on, and one arch emits a brighter light than the others to mark the current Moon phase.
As you cross the plaza, the handrail announces each element with labels in Braille and raised type:
A view of the artwork near the Vision Institute entrance.
The artist worked closely with KC Fabrications to design, build, and install the sculpture.
The artist and her installation team in April 2023.
Shervone Neckles asked Father Albie Schempp to bless The Lunar Portal when the installation was completed.
