vision to reality

vision to reality. . , Regardless of the size of a bronze sculpture, "lost wax investment casting" follows the same multi-step process. Each figure takes 6 to 8 months from creation to completion, depending on complexity and size. The first step is for the sculptor to envision the story the sculpture will tell. Many sketches are made before the actual sculpting begins. The first hand-on step is to sculpt the piece from wax or clay. , Molding , A mold maker takes the first steps in the long process of turning it into a bronze by coating the original sculpture first in rubber to capture the detail, then a layer of plaster to retain the shape. The mold is made in a number of plates which are pulled off the sculpture , Next Molten wax is poured on top of the rubber and plaster molds. The sculptor re-details the cooled wax plates by removing bubbles and cracks. , Dipping and Curing , The foundry then dips the wax plates in porcelain silica slurry. After several dips and cures, the wax melts out. Molten bronze at 2,000 F is poured in the shells. , Finishing Touches , When the bronze plates cool, the porcelain shells are chipped away. All the plates are welded together to reform the large sculpture. The sculptor re-details and sandblasts the surface, then heats it with a propane torch. , The heat makes the metal more reactive to the acids brushed over it for color. While the bronze is still hot, the sculptor waxes it to its final finish. , Placing the Sculpture , These sculptures came by truck from the foundry in Wyoming and a 85 ton crane placed them. The three falling figures weigh 8,000 pounds and a 16,500 pound piece of concrete attached to them, is buried behind as a counter balance.