Making bronzes is highly skilled work,and the casting processes can be done by lost wax casting, sand casting and centrifugal casting. The process begins from the artists ideas and sketches then progresses, working those elements into a three dimensional model can often take months. This is only the beginning, and from the model a mold is made, often pieces are disassembled to make the bronze cast, then re-assembled, welded, polished, and some times patina's are added for color. If a piece in the mold is not exact then the process starts over! No wonder bronzes are highly prized. It can literally take many months of an artists time just to complete one relatively small bronze.
The sculptors we feature are exceedingly talented, and dedicated to their craft. Many have completed commissions for bronzes of our country's presidents, as well as life size and larger commemorative pieces, and other public pieces. If you have thought of commissioning a bronze but didn't know where to start, call us and we can assist in finding the artist for your project.
Beyond Belief
Not A Shield / Hayoka
Ileya
This relief explores world religions and the celestial cycle. The
nearly four-foot sculpture - replicating stretched leather, tied to red
willow branches, yet all in bronze - celebrates what all humans share.
We are all related. Actual constellations provide the greater perspective of the universe. Beyond
Belief features the celestial cycle and nine world religions, including
(clockwise from top): the BahÁ'Í nine-pointed star, the Christian
cross the Hundu Aum, the Taoist Yin-Yang, the Sufi Heart and Wings, the
Jewish Star of David, the Islamic Crescent Moon and Star, the
Indigenous medicine wheel and the Buddhist Dharmachakra (eight-spoked
wheel).
This shield explores the Native understanding of the duality of extremes. The lightning, hail, dragonflies, elk and buffalo are all symbols used with Lakota heyoka (clowns). In the Native tradition, clowns are considered creator gods, because they allow people to see through their funny or grotesque presentation to a larger truth. With the heyoka, who speak backward, defy norms and throw expectations to the wind, God becomes more visible. In the process, people are encouraged into deeper and deeper contemplation. This is Not a Shield is available in cast bronze of two sizes. The lare piece is four feet in diameter; the small version is roughly half that.
This series is inspired by Grant’s consideration of growing into oneself, growing from the earth yet remaining grounded, and moving past obstacles.
