Public art isn’t just about aesthetics – it’s about permanence, engineering, and trust. For over 45 years, Magnum Companies has helped bring ambitious artistic visions to life, transforming concepts into durable, large-scale installations that stand the test of time.
From intricate sculptures to structurally demanding installations, our role has always been the same: make the impossible buildable.
Built Through Decades of Change
Longevity in fabrication doesn’t happen by accident. It’s earned through adaptability, resilience, and consistency.
Over the decades, we’ve weathered major economic and industry disruptions – including the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, the 2008 recession, and the global COVID-19 pandemic. Each period brought new challenges: supply chain breakdowns, shifting project timelines, and evolving safety standards.
Instead of slowing down, we refined our processes. We invested in efficiency, strengthened relationships, and doubled down on what we do best—delivering reliable, high-quality fabrication when it matters most.
Iconic Projects That Define Our Work
Public art leaves a lasting impression on communities, and we’re proud to have contributed to projects that do exactly that.
Installations like Mobius and Impulsion represent the type of work we specialize in – complex geometries, precision fabrication, and seamless collaboration between artist and fabricator.
Each project comes with its own set of challenges:
- Translating artistic vision into structural reality
- Meeting strict municipal codes and engineering requirements
- Ensuring long-term durability in outdoor environments
These aren’t obstacles – they’re part of the process. And it’s where experience makes the difference.
Impulsion
Collaborating with Award Winning Artists & Architects
Great public art is never created in isolation.
Over the years, we’ve partnered with respected artists and designers such as Mary Lucking and Kevin Berry, along with numerous architects, engineers, and design firms across the country.
These collaborations demand more than fabrication – they require clear communication, technical problem-solving, and a deep understanding of both artistic intent and structural integrity.
We act as the bridge between concept and completion.
Overcoming the Real Challenges of Public Art Fabrication
Behind every finished installation is a series of hurdles most people never see:
Complex Engineering Requirements
Public installations must meet strict safety and structural standards. That means engineering isn’t optional – it’s foundational.
Material Limitations
Artists often envision forms that push material boundaries. We work through those constraints to find solutions that preserve the design without compromising integrity.
Logistics & Installation
Transporting and installing large-scale pieces in public spaces requires detailed planning, coordination, and precision execution.
Timelines & Budgets
Public projects often operate within tight deadlines and fixed budgets. Staying on track requires discipline and experience.
These challenges aren’t setbacks – they’re where craftsmanship and expertise show up.
The Advantage of In-House Fabrication
One of the biggest factors behind our consistency is simple: we do it ourselves.
Our in-house capabilities allow us to control every stage of production – from cutting and forming to welding, finishing, and assembly. This reduces delays, improves quality control, and ensures that nothing gets lost between design and execution.
It also gives our clients confidence. When you work with Magnum, you’re not coordinating multiple vendors – you’re working with one team that owns the entire process.
Looking Ahead
Public art continues to evolve – new materials, new technologies, and increasingly ambitious designs. But the fundamentals remain the same: precision, durability, and collaboration.
After more than four decades, our focus hasn’t changed. We’re here to build work that lasts, support the people who design it, and deliver results that communities can take pride in for years to come.