Is a commissioned sculpture by Beverly Pepper, located in Federal Plaza, downtown Manhattan, New York City. Created for the US General Services Administration’s Art in Architecture Program, this cast iron sculpture features four “totems” that rise up to 39 feet tall, installed in 1996.

Assessment and Documentation

In 2020, Volmar Construction, Inc. was contracted to assess the Manhattan Sentinels. Their expertise was vital in accurately documenting the orientations of each sculptural element. Using a drone-mounted 3D scanner, Volmar created a detailed point cloud, which was then transformed into AutoCAD drawings. These drawings established essential reference points for the sculpture’s reinstallation. The team also conducted a thorough evaluation of the sculptures’ condition before removal, supported by high-resolution orthophotos from the drone, ensuring safe removal and storage.

Cleaning and Restoration

In 2023, Volmar Construction, in collaboration with EverGreene conservators, performed cleaning treatments on the Manhattan Sentinels. This process aimed to remove surface corrosion and rust scaling while applying a protective anti-corrosion inhibitor. Volmar’s skilled supervision during reinstallation ensured that the sculptures were placed with precision and care.

A Collaborative Effort

Volmar Construction’s dedication and collaboration with all involved parties were crucial in the successful restoration and reinstallation of the Manhattan Sentinels, preserving this iconic piece of public art for future generations.