New artwork unveiled in commitment to community
The Materials Processing Institute has commissioned and installed a unique artwork in a display of commitment to its social and ethical mission.
“Liquid Fire”, was commissioned by the Institute and conceived by Hartlepool-based artist, Stuart Langley. Having spent time at the Institute and experienced first-hand its furnace in action during a melt, Stuart aimed to deliver an artwork which acknowledges the only steel furnace on Teesside and augments the sense of magic associated with both neon and the on-site electric arc melting facilities.
The title of the work “Liquid Fire” refers to the pouring of molten alloy mixtures and is the term used to describe the spread of coloured light from early neon signage. The overall composition projects the drama of a melt in progress, while the linear lines of coloured glass, filled with neon gas hint at the detailed order and processes of the industry.
The complex outlines of the Institute’s crest, realised in clear glass filled with argon gas and a drop of mercury, are restrained to a glowing single colour which, when viewed, mix with the colour saturated background to highlight the potential to be found in combining raw materials.
The Institute has commissioned the artwork as part of its ethical mission which includes making a difference in the local community through economic development, education and art. It supports organisations that work in advanced materials, low carbon energy and the circular economy, which includes the upscaling and commercialisation of innovation.
Chris McDonald, Chief Executive of the Materials Processing Institute, said: “Commissioning this artwork ‘Liquid Fire’ is a demonstration of our commitment as a community here at the Institute, to our local community.”
“Our societal and ethical mission here in economic development, education and art, is to make a difference in our local community. This mission is not just for the good times, but is a sincerely held and deep commitment for the long term and one which we will deliver in partnership with our friends in the Tees Valley Combined Authority, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council and South Tees Development Corporation.”
7 December 2018
