Bronze Casting: combining historical & contemporary approaches – S0606

December 11, 2014

Posted In: Sculpture

Norwood Viviano

DATES: July 6 – 17, 2015

SKILL LEVEL: Open to all

CONCEPT: History enlightens contemporary techniques in this intriguing introduction to historical and contemporary bronze casting. Traditional pattern generation in the form of lost wax casting is paired with newer 3-D printing technology. Students are introduced to Rhino software and 3-D printers as a way to develop patterns for bronze castings as well as learning and exploring a variety of wax working techniques. This workshop is structured to provide an environment for students with little to no previous experience with 3-D printing or bronze casting.

MEDIA & TECHNIQUES: Students use Rhino software and 3-D printing in combination with wax working to generate foundry patterns. Students learn wax working approaches, basic rubber mold making, plaster investment, wax burnout, pouring molten bronze, metal working processes, removal of sprues, rough finishing, fine finishing and patination. Students are encouraged to bring laptops with current design software.

ACTIVITIES: We learn through demonstrations and presentations, individual and group discussions further the development of concepts and facilitates a better understanding of pattern generation and the bronze casting process. Much of the workshop is spent on developing patterns for investment casting and metal finishing, culminating in a final group discussion. Generous studio time is emphasized.

FACULTY: Norwood Viviano heads the sculpture program at Grand Valley State University, MI, where he teaches courses in foundry and 3-D printing. He received his M.F.A. in sculpture from the Cranbrook Academy of Art. Recently, he was awarded residencies at Kohler CO, Tacoma Museum of Glass and the Corning Museum of Glass.

Tuition: $1075 OR Tuition + Studio Support Donation: $1475
Studio Fee: $155

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