The sculpture was inspired by the Nissen huts used in the 1940's and 50's to house Bord na Mona workers during the peat harvest at Boora Bog.
The sculpture incorporates a recycled Tippler that was used at the Ferbane power plant to unload peat from the incoming rail carriages. The Tippler armature was wrapped in galvanised steel and incorporates stainless steel viewing slots. The big sky in Boora can be overpowering and the stainless steel slots create a visual cut to help the viewer focus on the landscape along the canal.
This piece combines the functional - bridge/shelter/bird hide with a sculptural industrial aesthetic.
Tippler Bridge (2009)
Material: Recycled steel Tippler from Ferbane Power Plant,
Galvinised steel, stainless steel
Dimensions: 15 m x 4m x 4m
Location: Sculpture in the Parklands
Co. Offaly, Ireland
Kevin J. O'Dwyer
Designer/Metalsmith/Sculptor