Tuesday 18 June 2019

How Artists Make Amazing Wood And Metal Sculptures

By Ann Harris


The methods used to create a sculpture is something that amazes most people. The way they are made helps them last for hundreds of years in many cases. The majority of people do not understand what it takes to make these creations. The way that amazing wood and metal sculptures are made will baffle the minds of many who enjoy seeing them on display. The methods are centuries old and haven't changed much over time. This is also considered one of the oldest crafts in history.

Wood carving is a specialized art form. The sculpture has to select the right kind of wood for the feature and use tools of different sizes in order to make the creation. Different types of wood have qualities that have their own benefits. Hardwoods typically last much longer than softwoods but are harder to create. The softer material can be easily manipulated but do not last as long. They both are susceptible to termites, other bugs, and weather and are usually displayed indoors to keep them protected and in good shape.

The tools used for wood sculptures haven't changed much over time. They include gouges, chisels, and carving knives. They will also finish the object with different degrees of sandpaper. Mistakes come easy, so the artist will work long hours, very slowly to be sure that any are minimized and the final art is perfect.

The artist starts by selecting a block for the work. They will then spend time using larger tools to whittle away at the outside and begin to shape the piece. With each step forward, smaller and finer tools will be chosen to make the various shapes. Eventually, they will have the shape they desire and begin to move to various grains of sandpaper in order to finish the piece.

Working with metal is a much different process. Though the history for this type of art does not go as far back, it still has a good and long history. The techniques that are used in modern times is not that different from the original way it is done. Some of the material used may be different, but the technique is very similar.

For metalworks, the tools will include wax, rubber, and ceramic. Some will include clay to make the first mold. This is where the actual sculpture is created. Since the clay is easier to work with than wood, they can easily fix mistakes or start over without losing the rest of the design.

The first form is made from different materials. Wood may be used, but more often than not, they use a big block of clay. Once the original is made, they then pour rubberized molding over it to make a negative imprint. They then pour the wax into this and adjust it to make it exactly like the original. A ceramic outer shell is created and hardened. The hardening process melts the wax mold. The final step is pouring the metal of choice into the ceramic mold and letting it cool. The ceramic will be smashed off the metal and fine tuning will commence so the end piece is as perfect as the original clay formation.

Creating art is something that goes back to prehistoric times. The art of sculpture creation goes back several centuries and some believe predate written communication. They have been used for decoration, religious display, to honor leaders, and in museums.




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