Sculpting in Copper

Metalworking in copper is an ancient and rewarding art. Used by human beings for more than 4,000 years, this long-lasting, widely available and very forgiving material lends itself to the creation of beautiful figurative sculptures, as well as abstract forms. In this book, lifelong sculptor Sue White-Oakes and writer Jim Pratt explain the craft of working in copper with the novice metalworker in mind. First covering basic tools and techniques, from cutting and truing to annealing and soldering, they go on to demonstrate five exciting sculpture projects, each increasing in complexity, with the aim of building readers' confidence as their skills progress.

Providing clear, practical instruction for the beginner, accompanied by helpful how-to images, this book is the essential resource for anyone wishing to explore the potential of sculpting in copper.

Jim Pratt is an amateur photographer; a forest research scientist by profession, he has made a photographic record of much of Sue’s work over the past 25 years. Sue White-Oakes trained as an industrial designer before taking up sculpture and painting in 1975. She now sculpts in copper using a process akin to silversmithing, and has a passion for representing animal forms in her chosen medium. She exhibits widely and her sculptures are featured in private collections around the world. Her work can be seen at the Lost Gallery in Strathdon, Aberdeenshire.