Duo™ Blocks Create an Art Installation on Newcastle Quay
Duo™ interlocking blocks were used to secure the polycarbonate panels of the Dichroic Maze art installation along Newcastle Quay, while doubling as seating for visitors.
- Client
- Raskl Art and Architecture
- Location
- Newcastle Quay
- Result
- Easy-to-install, leave-no-trace Duo™ blocks secured the art panels and doubled as public seating
When Raskl Art and Architecture were commissioned by NE1 to design, fabricate and install a new art structure along the Newcastle Quay for their Summer in the City theme, they wanted to achieve something to suit all stakeholders, from the very young to the older generation.
In doing so they designed an immersive experience called the Dichroic Maze. The installation was created using purpose moulded polycarbonate panels that were laminated with dichroic film and surrounded by precast concrete Duo™ blocks.
The Duo™ blocks not only secured the panels in place but also acted as seating for visitors. This meant that families could use them as an area for playing and older people could enjoy somewhere to rest.
Throughout the day the shadows changed and evolved depending on the perspective of the viewer and the intensity of the sunlight. This created a unique face for each sightseer on every visit.
Owen Batham, Sales and Marketing Director for Elite Precast Concrete, who manufactured the concrete blocks said: "The easy-to-install Duo™ blocks are ideal for temporary works as they offer simplicity and flexibility. They are perfect for above ground hoarding systems, making them the obvious choice for securing the polycarbonate panels."
Owen went on to say, "Our Duo™ blocks are made from high-strength concrete and as they don't require expensive, specialist lifting equipment are easily installed and removed. This reduces the overall cost of the project, limits damage to the surrounding area during installation and after removal means there will be no sign that the blocks were ever there."