Art & Community Installations
Giraffe Engineering has been ask to provided expertise on the design of several art and community installations, its always fun to get involved in these unique structures
Bruce Munro, Bristol Lights Festival
An art installation by Bruce Munro was proposed at the heart of harbourside in Bristol, during Light Festival at the end of January 2025. A series of CD’s were to be fixed to steel mesh to provide reflective surface for video projection.
Giraffe Engineering provided expertise on the design of a lightweight cable structures, using basic design principles to achieve an elegant design, which was economical, easily erected and dismantled.
Part of the brief was to provide wind monitoring and management system, to ensure health and safety was maintained during extreme weather. We are delighted to prove that the structure resisted serious winds from Storm Éowyn, and all the precautions taken, allowed the public to enjoy the art installation for the whole duration of Lights Festival.
Art Installation: Bruce Munro https://www.brucemunro.co.uk/exhibitions/bristol-light-festival/
The Great Beam - Adam Blencowe
The sculpture is inspired by the industrial heritage of the local area in Engine Common. ‘The Great Beam’ is a playful outdoor seating area for new residents and the community to enjoy once completed. Designed and made by Somerset-based artist, designer and furniture maker Adam Blencowe on behalf of house builder Newland Homes.
Adam researched the rich and varied mining history of South Gloucestershire . He then created a bespoke artwork in the heart of the new development.
Made of reclaimed timbers from a former railway bridge, The Great Beam is both an eye-catching, contemporary artwork and a place to sit and rest.
Adam explains: “I wanted the piece to have a strong visual impact and for it to be a focal point for the new development, but for it also to serve a purpose. The reclaimed hardwood beam has an industrial past, just like this part of South Gloucestershire. The wood has been planed and drilled, fitted with metal work to form seats, and sanded to soften the surfaces and edges. The wood has a textured surface to define the seats and create visual interest.”
Adam continues: “I hope people will enjoy looking at the piece and using it for rest and relaxation.”
Art Installation: Adam Blencowe https://www.suzanneheath.co.uk/project/the-great-beam/
Temporary Hay Bale Slide _ Longleat Safari Park
Installed as part of a temporary installation at Longleat Safari Park, this timber and haybale creation by Melt Productions needed a structural sign off before letting smaller people put it to a proper test.
These more bespoke structures require a bit more holistic thinking and offer a nice challenge we are always happy to rise to. The only regret is the slide wasn't ready for a full dynamic load test during our visit!