Background
An internationally recognized art collector acquired a monumental sculpture composed of multiple oversized pieces. The work, weighing 13 tons of glass and standing around 85ft (25m) tall, was destined for a new installation site where it would become the centerpiece of the space.
Given its scale and artistic importance, the transportation of the sculpture was as critical as the installation itself. The collector turned to Alba to ensure every piece would arrive intact, undamaged, and on schedule.
The client’s installation team had one goal: to focus on assembling the sculpture at the new site. Alba’s role was to handle the intricate logistics with the same care and precision as the artists who created the piece.
The Problem
Transporting fine art is never routine — especially when the artwork is both massive in scale and delicate in construction. This project presented four major challenges:
- Fragility of Materials: The sculpture’s glass panels and spines were highly sensitive. Each was unique and irreplaceable — even the smallest scratch or crack would compromise its artistic and financial value
- Oversized Dimensions: At 85ft/25m in height and 13 tons in weight, the irregularly shaped pieces required specialized crating, trailers, and lifting equipment
- Precise Sequencing: With over 100,000 individual components, the pieces had to arrive in the correct order for installation. A misstep in sequencing could have delayed or disrupted the entire build
- Tight Timeline: The sculpture needed to be installed late in the display space’s construction phase to avoid dust and damage, but still needed to be completed in time for the building’s opening
Lead by Alba’s export expert, Allison Hall, Alba needed to deliver not only logistics expertise but also peace of mind for the client, ensuring the focus could remain on the art itself.
The Solution
Alba designed and executed a logistics plan that anticipated and addressed these unique challenges:
- Custom Packing and Crating: Each oversized glass element were secured in custom-built crates with protective cushioning to prevent vibration damage during transit
- Specialized Oversized Transport: Alba coordinated flatbed trailers and routing designed specifically for the sculpture’s scale, ensuring safe passage from origin to destination
- Sequenced Deliveries: Shipments were scheduled to align with the installation order so that components arrived exactly when needed, preventing congestion and minimizing handling risks
- Rigging and Crane Coordination: Alba worked closely with rigging crews to ensure the handoff from transport to crane and lift operations was seamless and safe
- Tight Timeline Management: Delivery was precisely timed with the construction schedule to minimize exposure to dust and active site risks while ensuring completion before the official opening
- Continuous Oversight: From packing to arrival, Alba monitored the journey closely, providing the client with full visibility and confidence that the sculpture was being protected at every step
The Outcome
The result was a flawless transition. The sculpture’s massive glass pieces arrived intact, on time, and in the correct sequence. The installation team could dedicate their full attention to the intricate process of assembly without distraction or logistical concern.
For the client, the experience underscored Alba’s ability to deliver more than transportation — Alba provided assurance, expertise, and the attention to detail required for irreplaceable works of art.
View the piece in this detailed documentary.
“This beautiful sculpture is now in its next resting place after a very smooth transition. Working with Allison and Alba provided us with professional logistics operation, allowing our team to focus on the installation and remain on the time and on budget. Thank you!” Nikolas Weinstein Studios, NY
