24 August 2012
The NEC has recycled over 700 tonnes of materials since the beginning of the year, but when the venue made its environmental commitments at the start of 2012, it didn’t expect that some of its recycling would end up as a piece of modern art!
That’s exactly what happened after Warwickshire based sculptor, Luke Burton, approached Steve Cartmell, Cleaning and Waste Manager, the NEC, to see if the venue could help his latest project by providing recyclable materials for him to shape into a sculpture to be displayed on the NEC site.
Steve agreed to provide the materials and the finished statue, entitled “Beyond All Limits”, was received by The Worshipful The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Ken Hawkins and The Mayoress of Solihull, Mrs. Janet Hawkins, on behalf of the NEC, in an official unveiling ceremony at the site. The 18 foot sculpture, made from recycled stainless steel, aluminium and titanium, is now displayed for visitors to enjoy beside the Lake – a fitting spot as the sculpture emulates the sport of diving.
The Worshipful The Mayor of Solihull, Councillor Ken Hawkins, said; “It’s fantastic to be involved in supporting the arts in our community by unveiling this sculpture by Luke Burton, a local artist, which will now be appreciated by visitors to the NEC and the surrounding hotels. It’s great to see upcoming artistic talent in our region, and to encourage creative vision especially when it has an environmentally friendly message.”
Luke, who also has a sculpture on display at restaurant, Marco Pierre White Birmingham, was inspired to create “Beyond All Limits” by athletes who push themselves beyond normal boundaries to achieve their goals.
Luke says, “The piece reflects the fact that athletes are ruled by mind and body, with its design being fluid from a solid structure, morphing into the body of a diver. I wanted to use recycled materials for my sculpture and with the NEC being right on my doorstep, I thought who better to approach for help. I’m really proud of the finished piece and it’s fantastic to think that millions of visitors to the NEC will be able to enjoy it.”
Steve says; “With waste management, carbon emission reduction and eco-friendly environments on site being top of our agenda, we were only too happy to see some of our materials destined for recycling, instead used to create this amazing sculpture.”
“Beyond All Limits” will be on display at the NEC for 12 months, after which, it will be auctioned for charity.
For more information about Luke Burton’s work, please visit www.lukeburtonsculptor.com.