PROCESS

The Sculpture Process

There are two very different processes used to create sculpture:

The additive method:   a pliable material, such as clay or wax, is applied in successive layers, which generates an image that reflects the artist’s intent. Sculptures created with this method are best preserved employing the traditional bronze casting method, also known as “the lost wax method,” outlined below.


             
          Triumph - example of additive sculpture process


The subtractive method:  a firm material, such as marble or rigid foam, is reduced using chisels and hammers, or cutting tools, until the desired image is formed.


             
          Poseidon - example of subtractive sculpture process

The Bronze Casting Process - the Lost Wax Method

These six basic steps have been used for thousands of years to create bronze sculptures:

1.) An original sculpture is created, usually in water-soluble clay.

2.) This original clay sculpture is then coated with plaster, or rubber followed by plaster.  This multi-sectioned shell is called a “mold.”

3.) The clay is removed, which destroys the original sculpture.  Then the mold is used to create a precise wax copy of the original clay artwork.

4.) This wax copy is then covered in plaster or ceramic, forming a hard and highly heat-tolerant shell called an “investment mold.”

5.) The investment mold is heated, allowing the wax to dissolve and escape.  This leaves an empty space inside the investment mold.  Molten bronze is then poured into this space, which creates a high-fidelity metal duplicate of the original clay sculpture.

6.) The metal is then treated with chemicals, and often heat, which creates a surface color called a “patina.”