Client: Antony Gormley, White Cube Gallery

Project: Aerial Installation, New York 2024

In 2024, British sculptor Anthony Gormley, known for his minimalist and structural designs, unveiled his ambitious ‘Aerial’ installation at New York’s renowned White Cube Gallery. Gormley’s artistic vision required the use of precision-engineered aluminium components that were both lightweight and durable, able to withstand multiple reassemblies over time. To meet these requirements, Gormley’s team turned to Simmal for our specialised skills in custom aluminium solutions.

Our expertise in aluminium machining and assembly proved instrumental in bringing the installation to life. The project posed many technical problems, but through innovative solutions and precise engineering, we ensured the seamless execution of Gormley’s artistic concept.

The Challenge

The ‘Aerial’ installation presented many unique challenges, which included combining large-scale aesthetics with intricate functional needs. One of the project’s most demanding aspects was the volume of elements required. The initial enquiry from Anthony Gormley’s team included over 500 unique component drawings, each with its own specifications. The installation required an exceptional level of precision in both design interpretation and production, as every individual piece had to fit perfectly within the larger installation framework.

Beyond the sheer number of components, the structure needed to be both lightweight and strong enough to support its own weight. The installation was designed to be dismantled and reassembled many times throughout its lifespan, so ensuring durability was essential.

Initially, the customer’s design team specified machined, tapped holes to a depth of 6 times the diameter of the hole for certain joints to address the challenge of durability. However, this depth exceeded the industry standard of 3 times the diameter, posing risks to the durability of the joints over time. We also foresaw significant production challenges due to the lack of suitable tooling and the increased risk of having tooling break and becoming stuck in the component during machining. Recognising these potential issues, the client turned to the team here at Simmal for a more practical and reliable solution.

The Solution

Here at Simmal, we are renowned for our expertise in delivering custom aluminium solutions, and the team provided a comprehensive package that met the project’s complex requirements. After thoroughly reviewing Gormley’s design specifications, we crafted a tailored solution that included sourcing, machining, and the assembly of the necessary components.

  1. Sourcing Aluminium

Using our extensive supplier network, we sourced several different sizes of aluminium extrusion products, each suited to meet the artistic and structural requirements of the installation. The chosen materials needed to be strong yet lightweight and easy to manipulate during both the manufacturing and assembly phases. The team ensured that all the aluminium products met industry standards for durability, given that the installation would undergo repeated assembly and disassembly.

  1. Bespoke Aluminium Machining

Our skill in custom aluminium machining played an important role in the project’s success. Each component was machined with exact tolerances, ensuring a perfect fit.

  1. Stainless Steel Thread Inserts

To address the challenge of tapped holes to a depth of 6 times the diameter, we provided an innovative solution: the use of stainless-steel thread inserts. These inserts provided improved thread pull strength, allowing the joints to remain at a reliable depth of just 3 times the diameter. The use of stainless inserts significantly improved the durability of the aluminium components, reducing wear damage and preventing galling during repeated assemblies. This ensured the joints remained reliable and strong over the lifespan of the installation.

  1. Bespoke Part Marking System

During production, we implemented a bespoke marking system to streamline the assembly process. Each of the over 500 unique aluminium components was stamped with a unique identification number and directional arrows, allowing the installation team to quickly and accurately assemble the pieces. This solution significantly reduced the likelihood of assembly errors and saved time on-site.

  1. Delivering in Kit Form

We delivered the components in kit form, complete with detailed identification and installation indicator part marking. The kit contained all the necessary aluminium parts including the fitted thread inserts, packaged for easy assembly in New York. This approach minimised logistical complexity and helped ensure the exhibition could proceed on time, with the client’s team able to assemble the installation efficiently and without delays.

The Outcome

Thanks to the timely delivery of precision machined, custom aluminium components, Gormley’s ‘Aerial’ installation was brought to life exactly as envisioned. The project was completed within the tight timeframe, and the parts fit together perfectly on-site, thanks to the accurate machining and bespoke part-marked components supplied by Simmal.

The stainless-steel thread inserts played an important role in ensuring the long-term strength and reliability of the structure while also allowing it to be easily reassembled in future exhibitions. Our expertise in creating and delivering kit-form components made the on-site assembly process simple and efficient, minimising disruption for the client.

Through our expertise in industrial aluminium supply, advanced machining techniques, and tailored solutions, Simmal played a key role in realising the aesthetic and functional goals of the ‘Aerial’ installation. This project highlighted our ability to collaborate closely with artists and galleries, providing technical expertise and innovative solutions that enhance artistic visions.

Conclusion

Our collaboration with Antony Gormley for the ‘Aerial’ installation at White Cube Gallery showcases the company’s ability to deliver tailored solutions for complex projects. Through engineering excellence, premium materials, and a deep commitment to meeting the client’s unique needs, we played an essential role in transforming this renowned artist’s vision into reality. The combination of custom aluminium fabrication, advanced machining, and kit-form delivery ensured the success of the project, further cementing our position as a trusted partner for bespoke aluminium solutions in the UK.

For more information on how the team here at Simmal can assist with your next project or to learn more about our custom aluminium supply services, please contact us today.