The process behind the bronze
Cire perdue - the lost wax process
Working in bronze is the most complex of the sculptural processes. In 2003 Erik took part in three weekend courses at the art centre VAK in Jyderup, led by the experienced Peter Jensen from the Bronze Foundry in Gladsaxe. Since then he has cast a number of bronze sculptures at VAK himself, and had works cast at the Art Academy in Vilnius, Lithuania. Here is the whole process in pictures, from the first silicone mold to the finished, patinated work.
The mold and the wax shell
The process begins with a precise silicone mold of the sculpture to be cast. The mold halves are brushed with hot wax, which is poured out again after a few minutes - the wax that remains determines the finished bronze’s wall thickness.
Gates and investment
The wax sculpture is fitted with gates and a pouring cup so the bronze can later find its way into the cavity. It is then encased in refractory investment inside a casting flask that can weigh 40-50 kg, and prepared for the kiln.
Bronze casting
The kiln is heated for about a day, and the wax melts out of the flask - hence the name cire perdue, "the lost wax". Glowing, molten bronze at around 1100 degrees is poured through the cup and fills the cavity the wax left behind.
Chasing and patina
After cooling, the investment is broken away and the sculpture freed from its mold. Gates are cut off, the surface is chased and ground, and finally the bronze is patinated with oxides that give it its final colour and depth.
The finished work
The bronze followed here from wax to patina became "Hide and Seek", 34 x 25 x 21 cm - one of the works born from this demanding and deeply rewarding process.