‘Unfurl’ Perforated Metal Sculpture
‘Unfurl’ Bronze Perforated Metal Sculpture at Ashton School, Cork by Alex Pentek – Revisited. Perforated metal has the potential to be used in a range of applications including sculptures and other artistic designs. Find more artistic applications in the public art and sculpture section of our website.
Perforated Sheets
Project Inspiration – Artistic Approach
Recently we revisited ‘Unfurl’ a very impressive art piece that was erected in 2013, a stunning metal sculpture designed by the talented sculptor Alex Pentek. Pentek’s design of geometric patterns were perforated into Bronze sheets.
When working alongside Alex it was important to consider any issues or limitations with regards to material and fabrication. Both Graepels and Alex had the mutual ambition of creating a stunning piece, with our technical expertise and Alex’s artistic insight.
The inspiration for the unfurling sculpture was the in fact the location and the relationship between the new school and the old buildings. Alex uncovered the history of the original building as he aimed to link the subjects of Art, Maths and Science. It lead him to discover the Georgian family home was once covered in leaves and with no less then 20 acres of planting on the grounds along with large green houses. This led to the idea of the unfurling sculpture just like unfurling leaves in nature, linking this unique piece of art with its location.
Scale Model of ‘Unfurl’
Purpose behind the Perforated Metal Sculpture Project
The piece was created to celebrate the opening of the three storey building at Ashton school in Cork, creating a striking sculpture back lit with LED lighting at night. Alex’s design was punched into 3mm bronze sheets, which were then folded by Graepels to resemble the paper folding of origami which inspired the design. The Bronze piping was a later addition for the purpose of added strength, all valleys and joints were welded.
On our return to this unique project we were excited to see the weathering effects of the Bronze sheets. The golden geometric origami like sculpture had turned a deep earthy black. The weathering effect had altered the appearance of the Bronze drastically. Bronze is made up predominantly made up of copper usually with approximately 12% tin. The oxidation process that gives bronze its after colour, is a result of exposure to an acidic atmosphere. Rain is partially acidic and once acidic moisture comes into contact with the material a reaction takes place and therefore forms copper sulfate. During the reaction the acid is neutralized with the copper eventually covering the surface. This provides a protective layer against further weather, meaning that the surface post reaction will remain black and eventually turn green, this is known Patina, a thin layer which forms on the surface.
Graepels | Specialists in Bespoke Metal Products
For more examples on bespoke products or previous works visit our project Gallery Graepels extensive range of perforation tooling and wire weaving mean the possibilities are endless. As specialists in engineered metal products we offer a large range of perforated sheets in a variety of shapes, types, and decorative patterns. Graepels also offer many different services including rolling folding, bending, welding, bolt holing and more. Graepels will work with you to give your project the added edge.
Talk to the Graepels team today to discuss your project requirements on +353 (0) 21 4772105 [Ireland] or +44 (0) 1925 229809 [UK].
What are your thoughts? Do you like the colour change? Comment below and let us know how what you think about this new look!
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mk_gallery images=”21273,21271,21270,21269,21268,21272″][/vc_column][/vc_row]