The stainless steel makes up the “skin”, or external part, of the spires. Using computer technology, the metal fabricator created “cutting files” that Gregory validated for accuracy. Gregory and his associates labeled each part of the spires, and once the metal was cut, a welder seamed the stainless steel together into the appropriate places. To smooth out the metal seams created by the welding, glass beads were blasted onto the surface, similar to sanding down a rough piece of wood. 

Internally, using angle iron and cross-bracing, the skin will be supported by steel rods, called armatures, that extend up into the spires. Integrated Sign & Graphic, Inc. (ISG) will help manage the pouring of the foundation slabs and internal supports. They will transport the walls, which will be constructed off-site, to the area, and then add grey stone to the outside of the walls. A crane will lift the two spires onto their respective foundations, and Gregory will ensure that the two spires are neatly placed and that the armatures are correctly bolted into the concrete foundations.

When we asked Gregory to describe this piece, he said, “It stands tall and dynamic, and it exudes a sense of movement and fluidity.” It is not meant to “resemble” any particular item but rather to be individually interpreted by the viewer. Gregory reminded us that this piece will change with the fluctuating natural light around it, called a “light envelope.” The lighting of the sunset in summertime will create a different feeling and interaction with the monument than an autumn sunrise. However, the name, the “Gateway Monument Sculpture” is a guide for how Sugarloaf CID hopes this piece will make others feel; that as people draw near to the monument, the art reminds them that they are crossing over a threshold into “Gwinnett’s Downtown”, the premiere business and entertainment district of the area.