Client: City of Raleigh
Location: Raleigh, NC, United States
Completion date: 2019
Artwork budget: $90,000
Project Team
Artist
Douwe Blumberg
Douwe Studios
Other
Patrick Glenn
Douwe Studios
Overview
Gracing the front of a fire station, “The Iron Roof” is an abstract representation of the protective/sheltering role the fire department plays in the community. Held in place by a web of cables representing the numerous supports that keep the fire department operational, the massive rusted iron roof serves as a shield held in place by the community which it serves. The three sculptural elements subtly form an abstracted fireman's helmet when viewed from a distance. Dimensions: 12' x 8.5' x 14' Material: Stainless steel and aluminum.
Goals
Artwork was desired to enhance this fire station in Raleigh, NC. The artwork was intended to announce the fire station and communicate the mission to viewers.
Process
An abstract treatment was specified by the stakeholders which presented an interesting challenge as most “firefighting staff” seemed to be more naturally receptive to a more representational type artwork. Much discussion was required between myself and fire department leadership as I developed my vision for this work.