Art Shield: A Contemporary Approach to Heritage Preservation

Revolutionizing Monument Conservation with Innovative Design by Hello Wood

Art Shield is a testament to the power of design in enhancing our interaction with cultural heritage. The project was inspired by the monument's inscription, which emphasizes fidelity to one's homeland. The design team sought to create a structure that would not only protect the monument from the harsh winter weather but also keep it visible and inspiring for the city's inhabitants and visitors. The result is a temporary, reusable structure that respects the statue and its historic environment.

The design's unique properties lie in its contemporary approach to monument conservation. Instead of the typical plastic cover, Hello Wood created a translucent structure around the statue, protecting it from the damaging effects of frost and thaw. The pavilion's design, inspired by the monument's form and the square's elliptical design, ensures that the statue remains a source of inspiration even in the winter months.

The realization of Art Shield involved the use of parametric software to determine the steel structure and birch plywood roofing. Laser cutting technology was used to shape the steel sheet pieces, which were then welded together. The roofing was made by CNC machines, and the transparent plexiglass facade protects the statue from driving rain. The structure was designed for swift assembly and dismantling, making it easy to transport and store.

The project posed several challenges, including the need to create a structure that protects and highlights the monument simultaneously. The design team also had to ensure the structure could be easily disassembled, transported, and stored. Despite a short timeframe for the design process, Hello Wood managed to navigate the various permissions required from different governing bodies and authorities.

Art Shield was awarded Silver in the A' Cultural Heritage and Culture Industry Design Award in 2020, a testament to its innovative and inspiring design. This project showcases the potential of design in enhancing our interaction with cultural heritage, offering a fresh perspective on monument conservation.