Organic Sculpture Techniques

We'll cover two practices utilizing the strange bounties of the sea.

First, learn the organic, simple and amazing seaweed based mould making material called Alginate. Alginate moulds are so precise that they can capture individual finger prints, hairs on the face or pores on the skin. Because alginate is organic it is ideal for casting other organic surfaces, especially the human form.

Participants will make their own mould, and will cast various materials into the mould, including plaster and wax, to create replicas of their object. This process is perfect for creating incredibly detailed and life-like replicas, and can be used in casting and mould making projects of nearly any scale. Alginate is economical, organic, and good, messy fun.

The second half of the workshop introduces the ancient technique of small scale mould making and bronze casting.

Using the fossilized backbone of a cuttlefish as our mould material, students will carve, press and scratch the surface to create a unique, small-scale depression. Then, using a torch, students will heat metal to its melting point.

Under supervision, each student will cast their own piece by pouring the metal into their mould. After casting is complete students will learn finishing techniques for bronze. These include patination, sand-blasting, sanding, filing and polishing. Students will leave with a small scale metal object and an understanding of how to replicate the process by themselves.

Instructor
Max Goodman is a working artist and educator.  A Philadelphia native, Max earned her BFA from the Tyler School of Art with a double major in Painting and Jewelry/Metalsmithing.  After finishing her studies and working for several years in the jewelry design industry both for nationally selling firms and as an independent designer Max spent a year travelling Europe as a wandering horse trainer.  In 2009 she relocated to Brooklyn and happily discovered the art making community here at 3rd Ward.

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