Step 1: Making a Silicone Mould

A silicon mould is created from the artist’s original sculpture which picks up all the detail down to the finger prints.

This allows the artist to create an edition from one mould.

Step 2: Wax & Running System

A wax replica is made by pouring molten wax into the mould and allowing it to cool.

A system of wax rods and pouring cup (the bit in the pic underneath the replica) are then attached to the sculpture which allows the molten bronze to flow in and fill the sculpture.

Step 3: Creating a Ceramic Shell

The wax and its running system is then covered in a slurry and coated in ceramic grain to create a shell.


This is repeated after each layer has dried until the shell is strong enough for the molten bronze to be poured into it.

Step 4: De-Waxing the Ceramic Shell

The wax is then removed by heating up the ceramic shell which causes it to melt and flow out, leaving the pattern of the sculpture inside.

When it’s casting day, the ceramic shells are cured in a kiln at 850°C so that they don’t crack from the temperature difference when the molten bronze is poured in.

Step 5: Casting in Bronze

While the shells are curing the bronze is placed into a crucible and brought up to its melting point inside the furnace.

The molten bronze is then poured into the ceramic shells pushing its way into every detail, before contracting as it quickly cools.

Step 6: Fettling & Chasing

Once the shells have cooled they are broken open to reveal the bronze sculpture.

The running systems and pouring cup are carefully cut off and then it’s time to refine the sculpture through the process of chasing.

Larger sculptures are cast in sections and welded together.