(February 2010) Olympic laurels for Cosentino and his artificial stone Silestone: The company supplied the sinks and counter tops for the Olympic village in Vancouver. That meant 6600 m² in a variety of colours. The village is one of the first in Canada to be built according to the new LEED-ecological standards according to a press release.
„Manifest“ is the name the Association Granit de France gave its new marketing campaign in which communities are called upon to use local stone appealing to the „sense of solidarity of citizens in cities and towns“. A comprehensive presentation can be downloaded in issue 12/09 of Pierre Actual (Download for 3 €), snidely remarking that the Association has kept a low profile of late.
Exports have suffered heavy setbacks from January until September 2009 according to the Italian stone industry. But a levelling out seems to be in sight as is reported by IMM Carrara (Italian): Negative growth of on average -21,3% value and -14,5% mass were noted in comparing figures to the same period a year prior. Regions with a net positive tendency are South Africa and the Far East especially China importing granite end-products and the entire palate of marble products from raw blocs to finished objects. North Africa, which had been described as „lively“ in the first half year’s statistics for 2009 dropped off considerably. „Satisfactory to good“ marks were given for the Gulf States.
This year’s Marmomacc trade fair to be held from September 29th to October 2nd 2010 in Verona is offering reduced prices for exhibit floor space until February 19th. The regular prices are unchanged compared to last year and are applicable until March 24th.
French sculptor Philippe André uses the Facebook web portal, to inform interested viewers on the progress of his latest work: a sculpture of monumental proportions called „Voiles“ („Sails“). The 24-t-artwork in Portuguese granite was commissioned by a bank.
Bergen Rocks, the Canadian sculptor’s symposium will take place from July 1st to 31st in Alberta. 5 artists will sculpt monumental works of art. The last pieces were coaxed out of a block of ice.
Video of the month by a Danish architect firm.