Client

Overview

L’Esprit du Soleil is inspired by the sun that rises and sets over Napa Valley’s famous vineyards and olive orchards, and by the nourishing qualities of vitality and beauty that surround guests at Auberge du Soleil. Installed at the iconic Rutherford, CA resort in June 2022, L’Esprit du Soleil is Gordon’s second artwork for the Auberge Resort Collection. His first, Infinity at Stanly Ranch in Napa, is a monumental work, installed on a hilltop overlooking the Ranch and Napa Valley.

Goals

When Gordon Huether was approached by the Managing Director for Auberge, George Goeggel and asked to create a signature art installation for Auberge du Soleil, Huether considered a variety of approaches, looking to the Napa Valley’s abundant sources for inspiration. Huether presented several concepts to Goeggel and the Auberge team, refining each proposal before landing on the final design.

Process

Huether’s final design for L’Esprit du Soleil begins with an abstracted circular shape imbued with energy through modulation and repetition. The selection of brilliantine material: laser-cut and powder coated aluminum, acrylic and mirror express the spirit and benevolence of the sun that is so ineffable. Each aluminum sun is finished in a different color and laminated to half-inch thick acrylic, that is applied to an etched mirror base. The suns are set against and framed by Corten steel. Huether chose the Corten for its weathered aspect, qualities which will evolve over time and which mirror the transformations we see in nature every day. The contrast between the unsullied circular disks and the tarnished Corten adds depth and complexity to this work which is illuminated by LEDs for a completed dimension of 20’W x 14’H.