‘Melting Point’ explores the most energy-intensive process at the heart of steel and glass manufacturing, where the raw materials are exposed to intense heat, melting them into a liquid state before they solidify into their final forms. These sculptures capture that pivotal moment of transformation through fluid glassy drips and a splash of molten steel.

As part of the exhibition in the Festival of the Mind 2024, the audience was invited to engage directly with the artwork. By touching the sculptures, they become the catalyst for change, activating the thermochromic pigments and unveiling the hidden spectrum of colours that lie beneath the surface. 

The South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre’s (SYSC) Sustainability research explores through process analysis and systems modelling the effects of transitioning to a green fuel source or electrification on steel & glass manufacturers’ systems and processes, and the impact of this on surrounding energy infrastructure. 

The economic output of these industries is significantly valuable to the South Yorkshire region, but they are also a significant contributor to our energy consumption and carbon emissions. Decarbonising these industries is a challenge we must face to meet our regional net-zero targets.

The creation of these sculptures serves as a micro-example of the complexities inherent in sustainable decision-making, mirroring the nuanced approach of SYSC’s research. Sustainability has been a central principle throughout the making of these pieces, carefully balanced against the challenges of crafting public artwork that demands a unique form, durability, and a high-quality finish. This process has culminated in a sustainability report, providing an honest appraisal of the projects’ impact and contributing to the broader conversation on the complex challenges for artists who are striving to create work more sustainably.

Click here to see the sustainability report for this project.

This piece has been created with support from South Yorkshire Sustainability Colleagues Simon Archer & Mauro Alejandro Cruz Mercado. 

The sculptures have been fabricated with support from the Northern Ballet Workshop Fabricators Griz Pedley and Pradeep Dash.