Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery
Nottingham Contemporary, recognised as one of the largest modern art galleries in the UK, has consistently pushed the boundaries of artistic expression.
The Project
Working directly with the Curator of Nottingham Contemporary, the aim was to create a maze of steel fences for the artist Sung Tieu to use for her installation ‘In Cold Print’ which explores the psychological dimension of warfare, acoustic weaponry, and its relationship to Cold War ideologies.
Nottingham Contemporary’s Vision
Sung Tieu’s ‘In Cold Print’ sought to engage visitors in an immersive experience, utilizing sounds, texts, sculptures, and architectural interventions. The installation was designed to manipulate materials associated with Havana Syndrome, providing a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between art and socio-political issues.
Housed in an iconic building in the heart of Nottingham, designed by the award-winning architect Caruso St John, Nottingham Contemporary served as the perfect canvas for Sun Tieu’s ambitious project. The venue not only boasts free exhibitions but also hosts special events, family activities, talks, film screenings, and music events, making it a dynamic hub for art enthusiasts.
The collaboration involved working directly with the Curator of Nottingham Contemporary to create a maze of steel fences that would serve as a key element of Sung Tieu’s installation. The chosen material for the fences was the Zircon 114 expanded mesh, selected for its small open area, versatility, and unparalleled design functionality.
Adding the Expanded Mesh
Supplied by a collaborative effort with Trimform, the aluminium expanded mesh panels were framed and powder coated in a Mill finish. The selection of Zircon 114 expanded mesh proved to be the most suitable material for the project, ensuring the creation of the desired maze-like structure while maintaining functionality and aesthetic appeal.
Surprisingly, the project faced minimal challenges during the installation process. The simplicity of the installation highlighted the efficiency of the chosen materials and collaborative efforts. The ease with which the maze of steel fences came together demonstrated the successful execution of the project.
The installation of ‘In Cold Print’ at Nottingham Contemporary showcased a unique and compelling use of expanded mesh in its less aesthetic form. The steel fences, forming a maze within the gallery space, not only added a physical dimension to the installation but also became an integral part of the overall sensory experience.
