Course Description
Fundamental techniques for producing metal sculpture using refractory molds and sand casting.
Athena Title
METAL CASTING I
Prerequisite
ARST 2400 or ARST 2410
Semester Course Offered
Offered fall and spring
Grading System
A - F (Traditional)
Course Objectives
This is a hands-on course exploring a variety of casting and foundry techniques. Included are lost-wax casting, resin-bonded sand mold making, pattern making, basic plaster and latex mold techniques. Metals usually include aluminum, bronze and iron. Furnace design and operation concepts are discussed. Skill acquisition includes metal chasing, patination, and other finishing considerations. Sculptural ideas will be discussed and developed using the approach of substitution or replacement of a harder material for a softer or less permanent one, usually wax. Assessment of overall accomplishments is formulated during intense discussion at studio critiques occurring regularly throughout the semester. Students and instructor interact as a group during these critiques.
Topical Outline
Students usually complete four to six or more chasings, starting small and progressing to larger sizes as skill of handling every step of the process increases. Students will acquire various pattern making techniques, understand various gating and spruing techniques, understand fluidity of various metals and moldable materials when they are in a liquid state, continue to develop an aesthetic understanding of the implications of using casting as a mode of art creation.