The finished maquettes were then scanned to create a 3D computer model of the thousands of components that make up the Kelpies. The method of construction bears remarkable similarities to shipbuilding. Fabrication began in Yorkshire in September 2012 and soon “a vast Meccano set” began to emerge.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=GjBb024bN04
Where was The Kelpies made?
Sculptor Andy Scott is well known for the iconic Kelpies in Scotland, which are sited at the Forth & Clyde Canal in Falkirk.
When were the Falkirk kelpies built?
The Kelpies were officially opened by HRH Princess Anne on the 8th July 2015. Now one of Scotland’s most popular tourist attractions, more than two million people have stood in the shadows of The Kelpies since their construction. No Debug Key available as Do Not Track is enabled.
How was The Kelpies made?
The initial structural design was developed by Atkins who digitally scanned the maquettes to create a virtual 3D model of the two structures. Working from the outside inwards Atkins developed a structural solution for a frame to support the external cladding which was to form the ‘skin’ of the two heads.
Where do kelpies come from in Scotland?
The Helix Park is The Home of The Kelpies – the largest equine sculptures in the world. Located between Falkirk and Grangemouth, it was created as a space for the communities in the Falkirk area to come together.
Why are they called kelpies?
But what are ‘kelpies’? A kelpie is a shape-changing aquatic spirit of Scottish legend. Its name may derive from the Scottish Gaelic words ‘cailpeach’ or ‘colpach’, meaning heifer or colt. Kelpies are said to haunt rivers and streams, usually in the shape of a horse.
Can you walk between The Kelpies and the Falkirk Wheel?
This short walk connects the stunning tourist attractions of the Falkirk Wheel and the Kelpies equine structures on the historic Forth & Clyde Canal.
What metal are The Kelpies made of?
Towering above the Forth & Clyde Canal, The Kelpies are a feat of engineering, each made with 300 tonnes of structural steel, and are a monumental tribute to the horse power heritage that was vital to the early industries of central Scotland.
How much did kelpies cost?
Andy Scott, who designed the £7 million public artwork, holds the copyright to the two 30m steel horse’s heads, thought to be the largest of their kind in the world.
Do The Kelpies light up every night?
A common question is, do the Kelpies light up at night? The good news, is they do every night!
Who fabricated The Kelpies?
Designed by local sculptor Andy Scott, the two 30-metre-high horse heads are clad with more than 900 steel platelets manufactured, cut and processed by Outokumpu. Each of the giant gleaming heads weighs more than 300 tons.
How old are The Kelpies Falkirk?
Built of structural steel with a stainless steel cladding, The Kelpies are 30 metres high and weigh 300 tonnes each. Construction began in June 2013 and was complete by October 2013. The Kelpies are positioned either side of a specially constructed lock and basin, part of the redeveloped Kelpies Hub.
How many kelpies are there?
An estimated 100,000 Kelpies work in Australia and around the world. They appeared in the United States around 80 years ago and have filled working roles ever since. The AKC added the breed as the Working Kelpie to its Foundation Stock Service in 2014. The breed will move to the Herding Group upon full recognition.
What does kelpie mean in Scottish?
In Scottish folklore, a kelpie is a dangerous shape-shifting water creature that can appear on land as a horse. The kelpie appears to their human victims as a grey or white horse, entices them to ride on their back, then carries them down to a watery grave.
What two breeds make a kelpie?
The kelpie was brought to Australia in the late 1800s from Scotland. They are a herding dog derived from the Scottish smooth collie or farm collie.
Why do kelpies have dots above their eyes?
At one end Rotties have dots above their eyes to aid eye communication and at the other end traditionally their tails have been docked, robbing them of a vital communication tool. Dog to dog eye communication is one reason for dogs kicking off with some dogs and not others.
What do you call someone from Falkirk?
Those who live in Falkirk are known as ‘the Bairns‘: this was after the 18th century when the well known motto ‘better meddle with the deil than the bairns of Falkirk’ became commonly used.
Can you go inside The Kelpies?
The only way to get inside a Kelpie is on a Kelpies Tour!
The pinnacle of the tour is that you get to experience a Kelpie from the inside, and see for yourself the breathtaking engineering and design of The Kelpies.
Where are the two horses heads in Scotland?
Falkirk
The Kelpies, located in Falkirk, Scotland tower a colossal 30 metres above the Forth and Clyde Canal and form a dramatic gateway to the canal entrance on the East Coast of Scotland. Created by Scotland’s leading sculptor Andy Scott, The Kelpies are a monument to horse powered heritage across Central Scotland.
How long a walk is it round The Kelpies?
about 8 miles
The walk starts at Helix Park, just north of Falkirk, and after passing The Kelpies takes to the south side of the River Carron westwards towards the site of the old Carron Iron Works. The walk is about 8 miles and mainly flat.
Did the Irish change sides at Falkirk?
The battle at Falkirk was a very static affair. The Irish troops did not switch sides (indeed there weren’t that many there), although the Welsh archers did threaten to switch sides due to lack of food the night before the battle.