Bell casting in bronze with David Snoo Wilson

Modelling, casting and other techniques

Ref: S5D29999

Location: West Dean
£858
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About this course

Learn how to cast your own bell in bronze using the ceramic shell technique. From wax patterns, craft a personalised bell with your own insignia.

Course Description

Through this comprehensive five-day journey, guided by your expert tutor, you'll gain hands-on experience in each stage of the intricate lost wax ceramic shell bell casting process. From wax pattern creation to bronze pouring and finishing, you'll not only acquire technical skills but also develop a deep appreciation for the artistry and dedication that bring these captivating bells to life.

Day 1: Introduction to lost wax ceramic shell bell casting process

You will learn the historical significance of bells and their role in cultures worldwide. You will understand the combination of lost wax and ceramic shell techniques in bell casting and delve into the art of crafting intricate wax patterns for bells.

Day 2: Wax patterns and ceramic shell.

You will learn wax working skills so that you can adorn and emblazen your bell with your personalised icons. You will gain hands-on experience in creating molds using ceramic shell materials and immerse yourself in the ceramic shell building process.

Day 3: Ceramic shell building and wax removal.

You will discover the layering technique using ceramic slurry to create shell structures. You will witness the fascinating process of wax removal from ceramic shells, achieved through kiln heat and understand how hollow shell structures are formed, preparing them for the bronze pouring stage.

Day 4: Bronze pouring.

You will explore the chemistry of bronze composition and its melting points, learn safety protocols for handling molten bronze and witness bronze pouring into prepared ceramic shells.

Day 5: Finishing work.

You will progress to the finishing phase, where you'll learn clean and patination techniques to refine your cast bells. You will assemble your cast bells by incorporating clappers and hardware.

By the end of the course you will have your personalised, assembled cast bell to take away with you.

Timetable

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

Course Materials

Included

  • On this course the College will supply most of the materials including bronze, slurry, silica, chemicals, safety equipment and fuel costs.

What students need to bring

  • Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no open toes or sandals). Safety boots if possible. Bronze casting requires safety equipment such as eye shields and these will be provided. Please wear clothes made of natural fibres and prepare to get a little dirty.

Available to buy

  • Available from shop:
  • A good selection of art and craft materials

Additional information

Please note: Your workshop will be in the Sculpture Courtyard which is a 10-minute walk from the main house through the walled garden or can be accessed by car. The Sculpture Courtyard is open on one side so be prepared for any type of weather. Morning coffee and afternoon tea will be held in the nearby Carrington Studio. You will return to the main house for lunch. Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes), safety boots if possible.

Tutors

David Snoo Wilson

Snoo has taught widely across universities in the UK and Europe with over 15 years of experience in teaching foundry.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

Courses of interest

Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.