
Glass masterpiece
Since late last year, Cardrona Distillery has been home to a chandelier of over 1000 handcrafted glass feathers.
The award-winning Crystal Chain Gang, Martinborough glass artists Jim Dennison and Leanne Williams, installed their largest-ever piece in terms of the number of feathers and width of the creation, in Cardrona Distillery’s restaurant in December. At 200 kilograms, these feathers certainly don’t take on their usual ‘light-as-air’ form.
“What sets this particular project apart is the size and intricacy involved,” Leanne explains. She says that it speaks to the beauty of the Cardrona Valley and the history of the distillery. “The frame itself is also incredibly detailed, both for strength and aesthetics.”
The spectacular work of art marks the first stage of a large expansion project of the distillery’s facilities, led by award-winning architects Sarah Scott and the Condon Scott Architects team. Sarah shares that the bespoke statement piece “embodies the exceptional level of finish we envision for the entire build.”
The collaboration, with Cardrona Distillery and its managing director Desiree Reid, signifies a commitment to exceptional craftsmanship, local heritage, and quality. “Every detail [of the build] speaks to the natural beauty and authenticity of Wānaka,” Sarah adds.
Desiree, delighted to showcase a Crystal Chain Gang piece, says it deeply reflects their history and values. “This beautiful piece symbolises our connection to the kārearea, our handcrafted process and our unique climate here in the Cardrona Valley, with our cold and snowy winters.”