A few years back when NOMMA and AFA (American Fence Association) started doing the joint convention, NOMMA decided to commemorate the occasion with some object in metal. Who better to turn to than Jack Klahm, a long-time NOMMA member and one of the pre-eminent metal artists of our time. Jack graciously agreed to take on the project. Him and Phil Heermance of Art’s Work Unlimited came up with the idea of a tree called Ascend.  As per Jack, “It symbolizes the joining of the fence industry and the artistry of NOMMA’s metalworking. The bird is taking flight carrying both organizations to new heights in their industries”.  

The tree is made from forged aluminum and then powder coated. Keith Majka, of Majka Railing Co., was the NOMMA President at the time and was instrumental in making this a reality. The tree was first displayed at the San Antonio convention in 2017.

Every year, a few commemorative forged leaves are auctioned at the annual NEF auction at MetalFAb. The winners of the auction get a replica of that leaf the following year as a keepsake.

This tradition has been going on for years and has raised thousands of dollars for NEF to promote and fund education for the industry.

Between conventions the sculpture would sit in a crate in storage. However, this year, after the Oklahoma City convention, AIDI offered to display the tree at its headquarters in Bridgewater, NJ.

We are proud to display the tree. Several visitors have asked what it was and its significance. Feel free to stop by our office when you are in the area to take a look. If any company wants to display the sculpture at their location, please reach out to the NOMMA office. The intent is for the sculpture to travel the country and spread its message.

In the meantime, I want to encourage you to support NEF by making a donation and supporting its mission of promoting education for the industry.

You can find more information about NEF here.

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