Stainless steel is a preferred material for art installations due to its durability, versatility and aesthetic appeal. Beijing-based artist Zheng Lu creates fluidity with stainless steel in his sculpture titled Undercurrent.
The monumental 20-foot Stainless steel sculpture, Undercurrent, merges traditional Chinese calligraphy with modern fabrication, showcasing Zheng Lu’s mastery of metal and philosophy of water.
Renowned artist Zheng Lu’s imagination manifested in stainless steel in the form of Undercurrent (2023), a breathtaking 20-foot stainless-steel sculpture. It was proudly displayed at the Dag Hammarskjöld Plaza near the United Nations in New York City. The shimmering installation, weighing nearly 2.5 tonnes, took over two years to create and exemplifies Zheng’s deep engagement with both material and meaning.
The SS structure carries thousands of inscribed Chinese characters inspired by classical literature, specifically Appreciation of Still Water by Tang dynasty poet Bai Juyi. This fusion of traditional calligraphy with contemporary metalwork reflects Zheng’s signature approach—blending cultural heritage with cutting-edge craftsmanship.
Beyond its artistic merit, Undercurrent aligns with global sustainability themes, echoing UN initiatives on clean water and climate change. Zheng’s choice of stainless steel—durable, reflective and resilient—symbolises water’s adaptability and the urgency of environmental conservation.
Installed under NYC Parks’ Art in the Parks programme and facilitated by WCPUN, Undercurrent continues Zheng Lu’s international legacy, positioning stainless steel as both an artistic medium and a metaphor for endurance and transformation.
Why stainless steel is ideal for art installations
- Corrosion resistance: Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making it perfect for outdoor installations that face varying weather conditions.
- Strength and durability: Its high tensile strength allows for intricate and gravity-defying designs without compromising structural integrity. It can withstand strong winds, temperature fluctuations, and external pressures, making it a long-lasting choice for public art.
- Reflective and aesthetic qualities: The polished surface of stainless steel interacts beautifully with light, enhancing the sculpture’s visual impact. It can be finished in various textures—brushed, mirrored, or patinated—to create different effects.
- Low maintenance: Unlike other metals, ss requires minimal upkeep. Its self-healing oxide layer prevents tarnishing and reduces the need for frequent cleaning or protective coatings.
- Eco-friendly and recyclable: As a sustainable material, stainless steel is fully recyclable, aligning with modern environmental initiatives, including those promoted by the UN.
For artists pushing creative boundaries, ss offers a perfect balance of form, function, and longevity, making it a top choice for contemporary public art.
Image courtesy: www.zhengluart.com
