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Now: Time for Wax

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Though my post is a little late, cut me some slack. It's raining and gorgeous outside, and we've been enjoying it. Might sound crazy, but I am so glad this summer is over. 
Tomorrow we head to Baer Bronze to check the metal. Before that, Mike had to go out there to check the wax: 
Mostly, this blog is going to be in photos. Because the photos are awesome and speak for themselves. When I look at this wax, I'm not sure what the purpose is. Here's what I know: Mike's pieces are cast using the Lost Wax method, which means the piece is cast in wax first, remolded, and then when the bronze is poured the wax is burned away. Hence, the lost wax method. 
This is an amazing shot. What I like about this broken wax piece is the detail you can see. This is pretty much what the bronze will look like. You know, minus the attachments on the bottom. 
There are some of the pieces that had to be removed and cast separately. The wolf is one of my favorite figures from this piece. 
Oh look! Another shot of the wolf. Check out the stance of this guy. He's ready to attack. 
If you haven't noticed, several of the boys in this piece look similar. That is intentional. My son did a lot of modeling for the figures, because Mike needed someone young, a teenager. This piece speaks volumes about war and battle. 
Blaine is the master wax-guy. He knows what he's doing. It's fascinating to watch these guys work. 
This gives you an idea of how big the figures are. Even though I have no artistic talent or experience whatsoever, I know it takes a lot of work to create something this small and lifelike. 
This green stuff is slurry. Baer Bronze puts several coats of this on, and when it dries they pour the liquid metal into it, and that's what replaces the wax. 
The reason I'm showing so much of this is because I think people can appreciate the process and work that goes into creating a sculpture. Sculptors have so many steps to go through. I'd be interested in the print making process. Maybe I'll look that up this week. 
Until next time, enjoy your week! Visit a museum, look up an artist, or get involved! 
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