"Lost Wax" Creating Form Part 2 of 3

Don't be fooled by the imitations. A lot of bronze is cast overseas in mass quantities, usually from 500 to thousands, what's unique about that? Nothing. Our sculptors have it done right here in the United States. They like to be hands on for every step in case corrections need to be made.

Here is one way our artists have their pieces cast. "The Lost Wax Bronze Casting."

For instance Lindley Briggs; sometimes will bring the original sculpture and pay the foundry to make the mold for her. Wax is then poured into the mold, creating a wax replica, which Lindley, in turn inspects and signs each piece.

The wax replica is coated with many layers of ceramic, called a ceramic shell. The wax is then melted out of the ceramic shell, then molten bronze is hand poured into the ceramic shell by metal craftsman using the ancient "cire perdue" or lost-wax method.
Casts are then chased, refined and sandblasted at the foundry, which Briggs oversees and directs the patination (is a film on the surface of bronze or similar metals, produced by oxidation over a long period) process with a craftsman who specializes in patinas.







Then they are out for you to add to your collection.

Creating Form Part 1 of 3

In my next few postings I would like to talk about sculpture. On how I believe its an art form that doesn't receive the attention it deserves. Its as valuable, and complicated as any 2-D work. I always include sculpture with my exhibits it brings in the sophistication.

Collecting sculpture is very unique and it goes with almost any two-dimensional piece as an accent. It can also be your feature piece in your home, office and even in your garden creating a bold statement. Also with sculpture, lighting can play an important role casting beautiful shadows allowing its persona to take on different forms.

The hard part; how do I display it, its not like I can put it on the the wall or can I? Many artists cast reliefs for example Lindley (right) and Jeffery Briggs cast both 3-D and 2-D. Relief pieces can be hung on your wall just like a painting and in most cases with 3-D, you can either purchase the pedestal or one may be provided for the piece.

In fact, some pieces like Jeanne' McCartin's sculpted masks (above) are meant to be hung on the wall. You should see the shadows her pieces create.

But one thing is clear you better start collecting sculpture fast. The materials themselves are starting to sky rocket, all metals for that matter, which is making it extremely difficult for the artists to keep their prices reasonable. This means there is an enhanced value, not only are you collecting from your favorite artist but one day the cost of the materials will make that piece even more valuable.


"Unlike two-dimensional art, sculpture comes with a sense of presence." "American Art Collector" April Issue, #42.
Featured piece Magnolia, Christopher Gowell

Check out our full range of sculptors at www.bowersockgallery.com