In Collaboration with Artist Thomas Sayre

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At Temple Beth Or in Raleigh, North Carolina, artist Thomas Sayre unveiled yet another thought-provoking and technically ambitious sculpture—one that fuses abstract geometry with spiritual resonance. The sculpture is composed of three monumental precast elements that, when assembled, form a striking inverted triangle with a subtly convex face and trapezoidal cross-section.

The final installation presents a bold and serene presence on the temple grounds, inviting reflection and symbolizing strength through unity. The sculpture’s precise geometry and seamless transitions between segments speak not only to the artist’s vision but also to the craftsmanship and problem-solving required to bring it to life.

Installed using a crane and dual heavy-duty forklifts, the sculpture now stands as a powerful visual statement, deeply integrated into the spiritual and architectural identity of Temple Beth Or.

This project posed one of the most technically demanding challenges in Lucas Concrete’s ongoing collaboration with Thomas Sayre. The sculpture consists of three uniquely shaped precast elements, each forming part of an inverted triangle with a convex face and trapezoidal profile—a complex geometric form requiring precise coordination from mold-making through installation.

A key engineering hurdle involved ensuring the three members could be fabricated independently and then reassembled onsite with seamless joint transitions. Maintaining continuity across all edges, planes, and curves was essential to preserving the sculpture’s monolithic visual impact.

Additionally, the structure required the integration of a central structural pipe, carefully aligned during casting and assembly. To accommodate the geometry and ensure proper placement during installation, the team employed a crane in combination with two heavy-duty forklifts, giving the installers the flexibility needed to fine-tune positioning onsite without compromising alignment or surface finishes.

This hybrid approach to lifting and setting allowed for careful manipulation of each component, ensuring the final reassembly achieved the level of precision demanded by both the artist and the design.

Temple Beth Or stands as a testament not only to artistic expression but also to the advanced engineering and coordination that made this sculptural vision a reality.