Canstruction, sponsored by Arts Brookfield, takes place at the World Financial Center, and sculptures are scattered throughout the building. Each team will offer visitors a mind-blowing view of how cans can be transformed into gravity-defying works of art. For instance, MTA Transit participated with an appropriately titled structure called “Can You Dig It?” inspired by the Second Avenue subway project. For the more tech-minded, “Candroid” by DeSimone Consulting Engineers offers a new take on the popular green character. Taking the local setting into account, “deVAULTed to Share” by Cetra/Ruddy couldn’t have found a better home than outside the entrance to Deloitte.
We had the chance to talk briefly with Indira Hernandez of GACE Consulting Engineers whose “We Shell Overcome” structure was inspired by a trip the young engineer took to the beach last summer and the idea of working together to combat hunger. Hernandez explained:
“It’s an interesting way to portray art. Not only will the art be admired in this setting, but later on it will actually be used. All these cans and food will go to City Harvest and people will actually eat this art eventually. It’s a recyclable process. It’s not really a can, it’s something beautiful. A piece of art.”
The team’s undulating shell was made using a common engineering method involving a cantilever and a core of three rods with transfers at the top. Hernandez explained that it was a good practice to apply real world transfer floor techniques to accomplish their can sculpture.
On Monday evening, a gala will be take place to celebrate the works of all the participating teams and to announce the winning design. Alberto Quinones, a member of the Canstruction Committee for eight years, commented, “What’s more sustainable than gigantic sculptures that are then donated to charities? It’s just the most recyclable art there is in many ways.” The exhibit is on view until February 11, 2013 and visitors are strongly encouraged to donate at least one high quality can of food with each visit.
+ Canstruction
All images © Amanda Silvana Coen for Inhabitat
