Located in the South Atlantic Ocean as part of the British Overseas Territory of South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, South Georgia is one of nature’s paradises, teeming in wildlife.
An impressive feat on its own, the Island’s current state is even more awe-inspiring when contrasted against the recent human activity that took place on its shores, which was once the world’s largest whaling centre.
From the early 20th century until 1964, whaling operations had a devastating effect on the land and marine life. Over 175,000 whales were slaughtered during the years of the industry.
South Georgia’s resurgence is seen as modern rarity: an eco-system in recovery and a beacon of hope for conservation activities worldwide.
Commensalis
In 2020, the South Georgia Heritage Trust awarded an artistic commission to Scottish artist Michael Visocchi, to create a sculpture called Commensalis: The spirit tables of South Georgia.
The sculpture will help interpret Grytviken’s past and will celebrate the recovery of South Georgia’s wildlife.
To support the completion of Commensalis, WSP will provide structural design and fabrication advice, geotechnical engineering materials and durability, sustainability and net zero advice and planning and approvals advice. The value of the pro bono services amount to approximately AU$55,000.
Stewart Garden, Technical Executive, says, “Fabricating and installing this sculpture on a remote island in the South Atlantic will be such a unique challenge. Leveraging our Future Ready™ methodology will enable us to think beyond the conventional so that we can plan and design a sculpture that’s ready for today as well as the future.
“For our people at WSP, who come from engineering, logistics and transport type backgrounds, it’s quite exciting to put our problem-solving skills to the test with this unique piece of work and contribute to this lofty goal.”
