|
The
creation of the sculptures is an artistic and skillful
process.
Scroll below to find out how Steve takes
a concept from the drawing pad into the third dimension.
|
|
(1)
The artist
first draws a rendering of the subject. Different
concepts are sketched out.
|
|
|
|
|
(2)
An
armature of the figure is then made out of aluminum
wire. Next, using plasalina clay, the artist lays
down a foundation of anatomy including skeleton
and muscle. This process take about 6 weeks.
|
|
|
|
|
(3)
At
the foundry, using the 'lost wax' method a silicon
mold of the clay is made. Wax is poured into the
mold to produce a wax replica which is then inspected
by the artist. Next they 'sprew' the wax model which
makes another mold of it. The wax model is melted
out, making way for the molten bronze to be poured
in.
|
|
|
|
|
(4)
The
bronze statue is now ready for the 'chasing' process.
Any last minute welding or corrections are made
in this final stage.
|
|
|
|
|
(5)
The
statue is placed in a giant sandblaster. Inside
the sand smoothes the surface to prepare for patina.
|
|
|
|
|
(6)
During the patina process,
sulphur liquid is first applied to the statue and
then burned off with a blow torch.
|
|
|
|
|
(7)
The patina artist applies the
first layer of paint. The paint is sealed with the
blow torch.
This process is repeated layer after layer until
the statue is ready for its protective layer of
polish.
|
|
|
|
|
(8)
The finished piece is then
attached to its base. The patron may request a polished
walnut base
or italian marble base. A personalized brass name
plate is then mounted onto the base.
|
|
|
|
| All photos credit Patty Harpst |
