The Kelpies - Scotland's Largest Art Installation

Two giant horse heads towering over the Forth & Clyde canal in Falkirk, Scotland, are, as per BBC, The Largest Art Installation in Scotland.

Known as the Kelpies, it is a monument to horse powered heritage across Scotland. As per Wikipedia;
"The Kelpies name reflected the mythological transforming beasts possessing the strength and endurance of 10 horses; a quality that is analogous with the transformational change and endurance of Scotland’s inland waterways. The Kelpies represent the lineage of the heavy horse of Scottish industry and economy, pulling the wagons, ploughs, barges and coal ships that shaped the geographical layout of the Falkirk area."

The art work was designed by sculptor Andy Scott and the colossus heads are 30 metre (99 ft.) high, weigh 300 tonnes each. Made of structural steel with a stainless steel cladding, the sculptures are located within newly developed "the Helix" park, Falkirk, close to specially constructed lock and basin of the new extension to the Forth and Clyde Canal.

Since its opening in April 2104 it has become a big tourist attraction.

Image from Flickr is by Karen Bryan

Image from Flickr is by Mr. Evil Cheese Scientist

Image from Flickr is by Gordon Mckinlay

Image from Flickr is by Willie Angus

In addition to these giant figures, two sets of 1:10 scale models, known as Maquettes were also built. These have been displayed at many locations within Scotland as well as in New York and Chicago (See image below).

Image from Flickr is by Heather Paul

Watch in Youtube which also shows inside view.


View location in Google Maps and Street View

Source of info: BBC News / Wikipedia

More info and some great images in Kelpies Home Page and Colossal web site.

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