Excellence in Galvanizing
Cycling fever well and truly swept the nation earlier this year following the eagerly awaited start to the Tour de France in Yorkshire. One community in particular will not forget the event anytime soon, after a specially commissioned sculpture was erected as a permanent reminder of the British send-off to more than 200 riders.
Michael Kusz, was specially commissioned to produce a sculpture to mark the start of the Tour de France, standing at just over three metres tall, the sculpture was created with the support of around one hundred 7- 15 year-olds from local schools. Michael also enlisted the help of Metaltreat to ensure the longevity of the piece.
“The sculpture takes the form of a giantallium plant – or ornamental onions – set in a wine barrel, and is made from unwanted bicycle parts,” explained Michael. “The Swaledale Festival, who commissioned the sculpture, needed it to be as durable as possible, which is why we decided on a galvanized finish. The Metaltreat plant was recommended to me by my local steel supplier and I found the team incredibly helpful. So much so, that I plan to have my next piece galvanized by the firm too.”
Artistic Director of the Swaledale Festival, Malcolm Creese, said: "Michael's stunning artwork is a wonderful way to commemorate the Tour de France in Swaledale, and the galvanizing treatment will ensure that it is enjoyed for many years to come – by both the local community and visitors to the region.” Iain McBeath, Commercial Manager at Metaltreat, added: “We were delighted to be involved in the project and look forward to working with Michael again soon.”
By Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd