The Fine Art of Casting
Turning a concept or an idea in to a sculpture, is exciting for an artist.
We also understand that there are anxities about the mold and casting process. We understand that each piece is unique and we strive to best replicate the artists concept that he or she has dedicated many hours.
Each sculpture must first go through a comprehensive twelve step process before it actually becomes a bronze sculpture. We do this with precision, talent, & careful analysis.
The first step is the molding where a rubber mold is made on the artists sculpture. Then, wax pouring which hot wax is poured into the mother mold, creating a hollow wax copy of the original. Afterwards, we move the wax copy to wax chasing where seamlines are carefully removed from the wax copies. Once the seamlines are removed the piece goes through a spruing process where the waxes are mounted on wax cups.
Now, its off to the slurry in which a hard shell is built around the waxes in preparation for metal pouring.
Next, is lost wax casting the hardened shell mold is placed in a hot oven to melt out the wax pattern. When this is complete it is time for metal pouring.
Red hot liquid bronze is poured into the slurry shell. Then, the shell is removed from the bronze casting. Then, when metal has cooled the shell is removed from the bronze casting.
Talented artists assemble the bronzes by welding parts together and tooling out the welds. Bronzes are then checked for quality;carefully. Once the piece is approved by passing quality control then patina begins.
In patina, heat and chemicals are applied to bronzes creating exquisite colors and finishes.
Afterwords, the artist is then contacted and upon an inspection and approval from the artist either via in person or email, we mount the sculpture on wood, granite, or marble base if so, desired.
Once the sculpture(s) are complete it is picked up by the artist, shipped to them directly, or on occassions we deliver.
Metal Pouring
Parks Bronze Foundry
Where The Artisans Work
