For over a decade, the Twisted Chimney in Rhymney has stood as an intriguing piece of public art, catching the eyes of locals and visitors alike. However, recent bad weather has revealed an unexpected secret about this iconic structure, leading to widespread surprise and a renewed focus on its maintenance. This article delves into the recent developments surrounding the Twisted Chimney, exploring its origins, the materials used in its construction, and the steps being taken to preserve it for future generations.
The Hidden Truth Behind the Twisted Chimney
Installed in 2010 by Caerphilly County Borough Council, the Twisted Chimney, also known as Simnai Dirdro in Welsh, was created by New York-based artist Brian Tolle. This eight-meter-high and 16-meter-long sculpture, which cost £180,000, was designed to resemble a 19th-century brick smokestack but with a modern twist—literally. The structure is tilted and inverted, symbolizing the shift from industrial pollution to the more hopeful concept of carbon capture and storage, reflecting modern efforts to combat global warming.
However, a recent turn of events has revealed that the Twisted Chimney is not quite what it seems. Although it gives the appearance of being made of traditional redbrick, the sculpture is actually constructed from polycarbonate, a durable and lightweight material. The polycarbonate is coated in a waterproof layer and then hand-painted to achieve the brick-like facade. Unfortunately, part of this facade has fallen away due to recent bad weather, exposing the true nature of the material beneath.
Public Reaction and Council Response
The revelation that the Twisted Chimney is not made of brick sparked significant reaction on social media. Many local residents expressed their shock and disappointment, feeling that the sculpture had lost some of its authenticity. Labour councillor Carl Cuss, who represents Twyn Carno, acknowledged the surprise but pointed out that the materials used in the construction were documented in a video produced by the council back in 2010.
In response to the damage, a spokesperson for Caerphilly County Borough Council assured the public that steps are being taken to make the structure safe and to plan for its repair. The council is working closely with the artist, Brian Tolle, to assess the extent of the damage and to develop a remediation plan that will restore the sculpture while preventing further deterioration. The repairs will focus on replacing the missing sections as seamlessly as possible to preserve the artwork’s original appearance.
The Importance of Maintenance
The damage to the Twisted Chimney has also highlighted the need for a regular maintenance regime. Dawn Bowden, MS for Merthyr Tydfil and Rhymney and deputy minister for arts and sport, expressed her disappointment at the state of the sculpture and emphasized the importance of routine maintenance for public artworks. She has communicated with the Welsh Government to underscore the need for ongoing upkeep of the area surrounding the Twisted Chimney.
Councillor Cuss has also been in discussions with Ms. Bowden and the council to establish a regular grounds maintenance program in conjunction with the necessary repairs. This initiative aims to ensure that the Twisted Chimney and its surrounding area remain in good condition for years to come, preserving both the artwork and its significance as a symbol of hope and environmental progress.
Conclusion
The recent damage to Rhymney’s Twisted Chimney has not only revealed a surprising secret about its construction but has also sparked a broader conversation about the importance of maintaining public artworks. As repairs are planned and discussions about ongoing maintenance continue, the Twisted Chimney stands as a reminder of the need to preserve our cultural landmarks. With proper care, this unique sculpture can continue to inspire and provoke thought for many years to come.
