A new installation by prolific multi-disciplinary artist and sculptor Gordon Mitchell integrates digitally printed glass from Cooling Bros Glass with a highly detailed sculpture to reflect the rich industrial history of the site at a South Guildford industrial estate.
Commissioned by Wonteco for their headquarters built at the site of a former warehouse, the installation ‘Blueprint’ is part of a new public art trend in high density suburban areas with new artworks incorporated into warehouses and factories providing a welcome relief from the monotony of industrial landscapes.
Working in partnership with Meyer Shircore Architects, Mitchell has created a commanding art installation that spans the primary facade, celebrating the years past and creating a contemporary art feature to adorn the workplace entrance.
The glass component of ‘Blueprint’ consists of 104 printed panels covering a total of 60sqm, which provide a decorative backdrop to the main sculptural element and are made from 6mm toughened safety glass printed in two colours using Cooling Bros’ ImagInk Digital Ceramic printing technology. The printed glass panels have been installed by Jason Windows into a commercial glazing frame. The durability of the printed surface prevents any adverse effects from UV exposure such as discolouring, usually experienced with vinyl or UV inks.
Mitchell opted to treat the aluminium sculpture of cogs and rods with a specialised industrial paint containing iron filaments that rust to convey the appearance of age, while complementing the bright blues within the glass, and the colour scheme of the Alucobond panels. The vibrant printed glass complements the metalwork to create an artwork that symbolises the unity of a successful workforce and the importance of teamwork.
Mitchell has succeeded in demonstrating the effectiveness of combining printed glass and sculpture into an industrial space, delivering a piece that is engaging and uplifting for viewers.
