Red-Hot Bronze
For the tenth time in his career, Glenn Campbell stopped by the HHS Art Department to show students how to cast wax models into bronze.
“It was unbelievably exciting. Every time we break open the molds it feels like Christmas morning,” says art teacher Ms. Greene.
The process starts with the creation of a wax object. Then, one makes a mold of the object and melts out the wax. This leaves a hollow space in the mold – exactly the form of the wax model, including any fingerprints. Bronze is melted in a crucible and poured into the mold. When the bronze has cooled the mold is smashed open and the wax model is now bronze. The mold is cleaned off, the piece is cleaned up, and the artists are left with an amazing final piece.
Ms. Greene asked all her students to write a few words about the process. This is what they said:
“Just watching the whole process unfold was pretty incredible. I started with a little wax feather and by the end I had a shiny, heavy bronze feather. Glenn has been doing this for 40 years and I’m glad he could come!” – Liesel Robbins.
“I really enjoyed experimenting with a new material, and I liked learning from a professional.” – Sam Schwartz
“It was really cool learning how to make something that will last longer than me!” – Hannah Nice
“It was a really fun experience to watch the casting happen. I highly recommend it to all.” – Gus Lyons
“I was absolutely amazed by the bronze in liquid form. The color was indescribable. I have never seen something so hot. I was amazed by how much cold water it needed to cool it down.” – Ben Hartman.
“I really enjoyed watching Glen put hard cold bronze into the pot and watching it turn to liquid in only about 15 minutes; it was amazing!” – Ellie Cook
“It was a great experience to be a part of. I really enjoyed working with a new material. I even enjoyed using the wax before it was cast.” – Chris Powell
“The bronze casting is a chance to make unique sculptures and work with an expert in the field. I like my piece because it was fun to make. We messed with wax until it turned into something!” – Seamus Good
“It was very cool to see the actual bronze casting and to be able to work with bronze and feel the difference.” – Peter Chow
“The bronze casting project was a unique experience that is most likely an one time thing and we are lucky to have it in the school.” – Ben Coats
“The whole process takes a whole day of just cleaning. It was worth it.” – Sean Jones