Ref: SLW40632
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 Londons 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.
All of the materials will be provided, including bronze, moulding sand, fuel and consumables.
Ideas or objects for reference, and sketchbooks and pencils if desired
Available from shop: Items are available from the College Shop, subject to availability
Available from tutor: Bronze up to half a kilo is included in the course materials fee. Any additional bronze will be available at £25/kilo if needed.
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 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.
Arrival day - first date of course
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
Student welcome, followed by dinner: 6.45pm (dinner included)
Teaching session: 8pm-9pm (attendance is essential)
Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am-5pm
Morning session: 9.15am-12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm-2pm (lunch included)
Afternoon session: 2pm-5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Departure day - last date of course
Course teaching: 9.15am-3pm (lunch included)
Teaching finishes: 3pm
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am.
Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.
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.
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