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Katie Ventress, a local artist blacksmith, was commissioned to create a bespoke piece of art for a former resident of Africa and called in support from long-time supporters, Humber Galvanizing Ltd to protect it for years to come.

Katie said: “I was commissioned to create a unique piece from a customer who previously lived in Africa, and wanted a garden sculpture to remind them of their time there and the magnificent animals they came across. After much discussion, we decided on a Baboon, and I set to work designing this piece, taking inspiration from the ‘Olive Baboons’.

“After all the careful planning and preparation, we wanted to ensure the piece would be protected to the very best of our abilities against weathering or rusting. And, as he’s being placed onto the roof of an outbuilding, with a home only 10 minutes from the sea on the North York Moors, we concluded that galvanizing would be the most appropriate solution. I embarked on the assistance of Humber Galvanizing, who I’ve worked with many times before, to ensure that the Baboon was ready for its new location.”

The Baboon was hot-dipped in molten zinc – a treatment that produces a coating which is bonded metallurgically to the steel. This unique and sustainable finishing process has the greatest resistance to damage, and provides long-term protection against rust and corrosion.

“Afterwards, I used a mild acid etch to dull the bright galvanizing finish, leaving only his face, hands and bottom a little darker,” Katie continued. “And, I’ve just received an enquiry about the possibility of having a Mrs Baboon – so watch this space!”

Tony Linsley, Sales Manager at Humber Galvanizing, added: “It’s such a privilege to yet again play such an integral part in the preservation of another fantastic piece of art from Katie. This one certainly is unique, and we hope that it’s enjoyed for many years to come by its new owners.”

Humber Galvanizing is part of Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd, the largest hot-dip galvanizing organisation in the UK with a history dating back over 150 years. With 14 plants strategically placed across the country, the firm offers a truly national galvanizing service.

By Wedge Group Galvanizing Ltd

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