SOLAR COMPASS 1111

A contemporary light compass for direction, awareness and connection
10–13 September 2026 — Big Art, Codrico Factory, Rotterdam

After years of contemplation, meditation and creation, Solar Compass 1111 was unveiled for the first time at Big Art Rotterdam 2026.

Set within the monumental Codrico Factory on Rotterdam’s waterfront, the presentation marked the first landing of the work and the beginning of its journey into the world. Surrounded by monumental art and thousands of visitors, Solar Compass 1111 became a place to pause, gather and reconnect with light.
Solar Compass 1111 is a sculpture, light compass and contemporary non-religious altar that explores what direction means — in the world around us and within ourselves. The work is part of Clifton Mahangoe’s ongoing mission to bring more light into the world and create places where people can remember their connection to something greater than themselves.

Inspired by Jantar Mantar in India, Mahangoe transforms the ancient sundial from an instrument for measuring time into an indicator of light and inner direction.
Four crystal spheres represent the four cardinal directions and the elements of earth, water, fire and air. A fifth sphere at the centre represents inner light and connection. Its geometry refers to the Flower of Life, a symbol of harmony and interconnectedness.
Sunlight continuously transforms the work through light, shadow and reflection, bringing together earth, time and cosmos.

The work also brings together rituals from Mahangoe’s daily practice: water, the elements, the four directions and the 11:11 meditation. Through attention and intention, 11:11 becomes a moment to reconnect with the light, transforming the sculpture into a place of awareness and connection.

Light becomes direction.
Direction becomes awareness.
Awareness becomes connection.
Materials: Copper, crystal spheres
Dimensions: 190 cm high × 120 cm diameter