structural engineering for large sculptures
structural engineering for large sculptures
(OP)
I need some advice before taking on a potetial client. The client is an artist who creates kinetic sculptures. It may verge on the mechanical side of engineering, but, in general, the pieces are attached to the top of 20' columns on foundations of course, and "spin" slowly with many pieces. Many of the pieces have been installed in public places, schools for that matter, with no engineering at all. I told him that I would need to analyze the entire structure and create a drawing, for new work, before I could stamp anything. I would appreciate any advice, stories, etc. regarding the structural engineering of public art. He even said that there is no requirement that it be engineered at all, he just wants to make sure it stays up and no one gets hurt (and not hiring me just to take liability). It is fascinating work, but I am approaching cautiously.
Thanks in advance
Thanks in advance






RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
I have been involved with sculptures in various ways, but primarily it has been to design the foundation required to support it. Much lower liability as I exclude the design of the sculpture itself.
The buyer of the sculpture has not required the sculpture to be "engineered" on any projects to my knowledge. The artist has just done what they felt was appropriate. In the end I don't think that anyone would have wanted to pay someone to provide the engineering for a piece of artwork.
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
We are going to do a foundation for a sculpture but I haven't seen the sculpture yet. I've very interested in the project.
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
Try to get involved early so that you can make sure that what they are proposing is feasible.
Also, make sure that you have the option to pull out if the artist is unwilling to meet your requirements.
I would explain to the artist that if one of his pieces did ever fall down and injure someone, he would probably never get a commision for one again.
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
I agree that you need to tread lightly, many of these artists make architects look flexible and reasonable, and they have the delicate ego to boot.
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
stinks to be in here on a saturday! There is actually sun shining outside and that is rare in my part of PA in January.
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures
RE: structural engineering for large sculptures