From Studio to Foundry

The ancient art of casting in bronze can seem a mysterious and intimidating process to the ceramic artist. In From Studio to Foundry: Preparation for Casting, wildlife sculptor Jan Sweeney demystifies the practice and offers two fantastic projects that will enable the artist to prepare their work for casting at a foundry. This helps to reduce the costs of working in this durable material, as well as offering an insight into the techniques involved.

Beginning with a broad overview of the casting process, and the tools and materials the sculptor needs to prepare their work for a foundry, the book goes on to introduce two exciting projects for bronze casting. The detailed, step-by-step images guide the reader through the process of creating a clay sculpture to be cast in solid bronze, from building the form to making a rubber mould and plaster jacket, pouring and fettling the wax model, and finally delivering it to the foundry. The process for producing a hollow bronze sculpture is then covered in equally instructive detail. The projects enable the reader to not only produce an amazing piece for casting, but to learn and fully understand the process from start to finish. It also includes information on key things to look for and ask when choosing your foundry.

This much-needed handbook is the essential reference for any artist wishing to produce their work in bronze.

Jan Sweeney has been a painter and sculptor for 50 years. She trained at Colchester Art School and worked in Verona, Italy, under sculptor Mike Noble. In 1985 she moved to Zimbabwe and developed a passion for the beautiful wildlife around her. She has now been producing bronze sculpture for more than 25 years, dividing her time between England and Zimbabwe, where she casts her own work.