Sculpture K.236

K.236 is a large-scale aluminum sculpture by Frank Stella, developed as part of CIG’s longstanding collaboration with the artist. Standing approximately 8.7 meters high, the work brings together an intricate composition of sweeping tubes, curved surfaces, perforated plates, and cast components. The complete sculpture weighs approximately 4.5 tonnes.

The structure is composed of several distinct elements, including large tubular sections, two complex “Ninja” assemblies, a “Lobster” section, and an expansive 3D-formed surface. Together, these components required a combination of bent and conical aluminum tubes, cast elements, milled parts, and hundreds of individually formed aluminum plates. The finished aluminum surfaces were given a non-directional brushed treatment.

CIG was responsible for the engineering, production, and pre-assembly of the sculpture. Our engineering work included development of the 3D model, structural and welding calculations, assembly documentation, and planning how the work could be divided into transportable sections. Production involved material procurement, cutting, extrusion profiles, casting and milling components, and 3D cold forming of the aluminum plates.

The individual sections were prefabricated in a controlled environment before being brought together at our facility in the Netherlands. Here, the connections and assembly sequence could be refined as the complex composition took shape, culminating in a complete pre-assembly for Frank Stella’s review and approval.

© 2019 Frank Stella / Artists Rights Society (ARS), New York.