Q: Are molds involved in your clay work?
A: I only use molds in the bronze casting process. Molds can be made of original clay sculptures to cast multiples. In my clay pieces I choose to have just one original piece. I do however use the same theme (such as the feet) but each piece is modeled anew each time, so each piece is original and unique.

Q: What is the process of bronze casting?
A: Bronze casting is actually a multi-step process, involving moldmaking, welding and patinization*.

In short, the original sculpture is made, in wax or clay usually. If made in clay a mold is made so a wax casting may be made. Once in wax another mold is made, one method is called ceramic shell. The wax is dipped in a wet silicia mixture, then dipped in a fine sand mixture, a series of dips are made with different grades of sand until a shell is made to cover the wax.

This is then heated to harden the shell and expel the wax, hence the term "lost wax method."

The shells are then heated again and molten bronze is poured into them, usually around 2000 degrees farenheit.

Once cooled the shells are broken off and the piece is ready for some metal work.

In order for the bronze to flow sprues, vents and pour cups were attached, that now need to removed. Also the piece may have been too large or complicated to pour in one shell. This involves removal of the sprues, vents and cups and recontruction of the pieces utilizing welding, cutting and finishing techniques.

The piece is then sandblasted and a blow torch is applied to heat the piece for its colorization (patina). This is done by applying a series of different chemicals that react with the bronze and produce different colors. The piece is then waxed.

*Please note this is a very simplified version of bronze casting. But will give you an idea of the labor and skills that are needed, beyond sculpting, to creat a bronze.

Q: Do you do commissions?
A: Commissions are welcomed, done on a case by case basis. You may have an idea for a sculpture that you would like produced. I will provide sketches and a macquette (a three-dimensional sketch) to rough out the idea. Changes may be made at this stage until the sculpture is agreed upon. We can discuss price, media, time... If you have an idea, please e-mail me and I will get back to you with any questions you may have.

Q: Do you use live models?
A: Yes, usually I work directly from the live model. I also use reference photos and anatomy books.