Ref: SLW31874
Learn the basic processes involved in creating a sculptural work in bronze. These techniques are steeped in a long and rich history, spanning the globe from ancient Samaria to the Kingdom of Benin to contemporary works on London’s own Fourth Plinth. As you work, you will discover some of the fascinating history and lore associated with the craft.
You will model a relief sculpture and then learn to create a mould using traditional greensand techniques. You will then see the fiery spectacle of metal casting as your moulds are filled with bronze that has been melted with an oil fired furnace (using recycled cooking oil).. You will learn the basics of fettling (cleaning and finishing) and patination as you complete your pieces using basic metalworking tools.
Overview:
Evening welcome
Introduction to bronze casting, including brief history, process overview, health and safety and housekeeping.
Day 1
Morning
Pattern making and modelling in clay. Discussion about design, undercuts and technical considerations.
Afternoon
Create sand moulds. Discussion about types of sand, best practices for ramming up moulds. Terms and technical considerations.
Aim: All moulds will be packed in sand, ready for opening and dressing.
Day 2
Morning
Dressing sand moulds. Discussion about how metal flows through moulds and best methods for gating, spruing and other technical considerations.
Afternoon
Light furnace and cast works. Discussions about how the furnace works and considerations for casting metal.
Aim: All work will be cast in bronze.
Day 3
Morning
Open moulds, clean and fettle works, discussions about basic metal work, best practices for finishing work. Patination of work: Discussions about the mechanics of patination and techniques.
Afternoon
Finish patination and waxing of pieces, discussions about care for pieces.
Aim: You will complete a relief sculpture in bronze to a professional standard.
Due to the time constraints of the course, you should contact the tutor via the bookings office on: [email protected] to discuss your ideas for your piece ahead of time.
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)
Stephen Coles studied at Carmarthen School of the Arts, before completing a master’s degree in sculpture at Alfred University, New York. After teaching there, he returned to the UK to begin his own foundry practice. In addition to teaching at institutions throughout the UK and Europe, Stephen works with artists, museums and conservationists creating bespoke works in metal.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Places available - Book now
Places available - Book now
2 places available - Book now
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