Turning my back on traditional methods of creating bronzes, which are usually modeled in materials such as clay, plaster or wax, after which a cast is made in a foundry, I have found a way to create my bronzes in the studio from start to finish. Instead of modeling the work I start to create the form with stainless steel rod. Bit by bit the work is built up into a grid shaped base for the sculpture.
This is the time for all the elements to come together and the piece to be fully resolved in regards to attitude and form. When the work is at this stage I spend some time to make sure I’m happy and then it is cut up ready for the next stage. The bronze I use to cover the armature is sourced from overseas as it’s not available here. It is in sheet form just the same as steel sheet. It is beautifully malleable.
One by one the bronze pieces are cut to shape and welded to the steel armature. They are cut with a bandsaw and welded with a MIG welder using bronze wire. The shaping is done with a hammer and wooden shapes of which I have quite a collection.
Once the piece is covered the work is sanded and finished with an alkalid resin paint. I find this to be a warmer look than acid patina. When this dries the sculpture is polished with a buffer and bronze polish. I try not to overdo the finish as I quite like the look of the welded pieces over the armature. It is unique and gives the work a quirky look.
