Inspired by the symbolicness of candles, the Grand Candela is a 30-foot monument comprised of 22 masterfully crafted, perforated aluminum arcs that represent the 22 lives lost in the 2019 Walmart Cielo Vista shooting.
Building a Beacon of Light
Walmart commissioned Multi-Craft Contractors (MCC) to fabricate and construct a permanent memorial dedicated to the victims of the El Paso mass shooting. The client wanted a monument that symbolized “the community’s unity and strength while emanating light into the sky,” according to a statement from Walmart.
The Grand Candela was built at the site of a tragedy that occurred only four months prior The MCC team overcame a challenging 22-day timeline, to deliver a superior work of art that will stand as a testament of hope, unity, and resiliency for generations.
Tackling Challenges with Teamwork
Over 22 days, 20 skilled craftsmen worked to meet the client’s project deadline. The design process remained fluid throughout, as the client maintained the ability to make changes. As changes were approved, necessary adjustments were expedited. Candela was constructed on the Cielo Vista Walmart grounds while the store was in full operation.
Innovative Fabrication Techniques
When the initial project design exceeded machine capabilities, the MCC team developed an unprecedented edge-to-edge laser cutting technique for the appearance of seamlessness. Aesthetic changes were requested by the client throughout the process. Automotive paint was used on the panels to create the desired visual effect. Constant quality assessment was conducted to allow for on-time completion.
Meeting the Deadline
The timeline of 22 days was a significant challenge. During fabrication, everyone was committed to efficient production and ongoing quality assurance. Several long days and split shifts were required to meet the project deadline. The team quickly formulated solutions to overcome installation obstacles, including delayed electrical inspection and shipping.
Recognition for Excellence
MCC has a longstanding commitment to excellence and the delivery of landmark projects. An integral part of MCC is making project performance the proof point of our reputation. Our performance and the quality of our craftsmen enable us to deliver innovative projects, like Grand Candela, across the country while investing in the future.
The project required collaboration between MCC Fabrication departments (Springdale and Fort Smith locations), Walmart corporate, and SWA Group in California. Expectations were exceeded on a very short project revision timeline. For their work on this project, MCC was awarded the 2020 ABC Arkansas Excellence in Construction Award.
Client Feedback
When asked about MCC’s work on the project, a SWA Group representative said, “The project team benefited greatly from Multi-Craft’s extensive knowledge regarding fabrication and detailing, in short Multi-Craft was able to take the concepts and expediently bring them into reality-coming to the table with their own thoughts on how to streamline the process and meet the required installation timeline…This project was successful due to this fantastically collaborative working process and Multi-Craft’s team spirit was greatly appreciated by all involved from start to finish.”
Delivering Craftsmanship and Innovation
As the focal point of the permanent memorial, Candela is a work of art that will symbolize hope, unity, and resiliency for generations. With innovative solutions and the highest quality standards, Multi-Craft Contractors, Inc. delivered the monument from concept to completion.
Work With MCC’s Fabrication Team
Ready to bring your vision to life? Partner with MCC’s fabrication department for innovative, high-quality solutions.
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