The Art of Lifecasting
A journey with Clay Williams of
Eaglewood Sculpts through the
Lifecasting process showcasing fine
pieces of collectable art
What is a “Sculpture”
“Sculpture is three-dimensional artwork created by shaping or
combining hard materials, typically stone such as marble, metal,
glass, wood, or plastic materials such as clay, textiles, polymers and
softer metals. The term has been extended to works including sound,
text and light.
Found objects may be presented as sculptures. Materials may be
worked by removal such as carving; or they may be assembled such
as by welding , hardened such as by firing, or molded or cast.
Surface decoration such as paint may be applied. Sculpture has been
described as one of the plastic arts because it can involve the use of
materials that can be moulded or modulated.
Sculpture is an important form of public art” (Wikipedia 2010)
Lifecasting Sculptures create the timeless beauty and eloquence of the
classics using modern materials and techniques fused with the time
honored methods of the masters. You are not limited by material or
form, but by the boundaries of your own imagination.
Lifecasting is not merely creating a mold and filling it with some
material. It is an art in and of itself with the feelings and
expressions of the artist coming through in the finished work. It
does not try to diminish the works of the masters, but enhances and
honors it. The artist combines various materials and techniques to
achieve the end result
It merges the new
with the old and
introduces to the
person viewing the
art piece a new realm
of understanding for
not only the human
form, but for the
passion and skill of
the artist
The expression and detail portrayed by the
ancient sculptors is carried through into
modern day. The same feeling and
attention to what the artist succeeded in
conveying in past centuries remains the
standard for today's Lifecasting sculptors
The Lifecasting artist of today uses many
different things available to him as media,
much as the ancient artist did in their era. The
end result is enduring and timeless. Modern
day Lifecasting sculptures are able to stand the
test of time. They will be heirlooms to be
handed down from generation to generation.
They will be coveted items in many art
circuits, prestigious galleries and many private
collections. They are also offered as coveted
awards for achievements in various fields.
The Lifecasting Process
The Lifecasting process, or Body Sculpting as we refer to it, is
simple in theory, but also requires the expertise and talent of the
artist to create a beautiful work of art. The main concern in the
process is the comfort and relaxation of the subject. This is of
utmost importance and proper care should be taken to address
this properly. The first step in creating the piece is to merely sit
and discuss the process and the vision of the work with the
model and the artist.
This can be simply walking thru the studio to see previous
works, leafing thru the artists portfolio, touching and feeling the
materials to be used, and simply understanding each others ideas
and views of the work. Often it may be just simple conversation
shared over a glass of wine or coffee, relaxing and knowing
what to expect.
The artist will explain in detail the entire process. He will decide
which materials are to be used and examine various poses. He
will walk the model through the steps involved and explain
what needs to happen in each step.
The process only requires anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 hour,
depending on the material used and the position chosen and the
complexity of the pose. Occasionally the process may be a bit
longer.
We start by selecting a post that is desired and making the model as comfortable as
possible understanding that they will have to remain somewhat still for the duration
of the process.
The process of creating the mold begins by applying release agent if needed and then
either the silicone or alginate material to the model. You must move quickly at this
stage as there is limited time to apply the materials correctly to achieve a quality
casting.
After the initial molding material has been applied, you then apply the “Mother Mold” which
will hold the shape of the models physique. This is usually either plaster bandages or other
materials saturated with plaster. Without this phase the mold would not hold its shape and be
useless, so this is a very critical component to a successful casting.
The process can be fun and enjoyable for both the artist
and the model. Comfort is first prority for the model.
The artist should constantly ask how the model is
feeling and make accommodations to be sure they are.
After letting the plaster ”mother
mold” dry, you remove it and the
silicone mold. The Alginate type
molds come off with the mother
mold-they do not separate
The models work is done!!
After the mold is removed, you then
apply layers of various materials. The
selection is virtually endless what you
can use, depending on the final
location of the item and the finish
desired. This is just the first step to
creating a fine completed work.
After the material
has cured
completely and
you have the
proper amount of
layers applied, you
remove the mold
to expose the work
for the first time.
This is a very
exciting stage of
the process!!
At this stage you see how good of
a job you did on the mold. Take
note of the detail that is captured
down to the fine lines in the skin
and even fingerprints.
Now you have the rough form to
begin creating your masterpiece
You are only limited by your imagination on how you
want the finished piece to look
The finished
sculpture is a fine
piece of art suitable
for gallery showing
or just for private
collections. The
vision of the piece
has far more impact
than a mere
photograph. It
captures the essence
of the model and
freezes in time the
memories that will
endure for
generations to come.
Explore the creativity and desire of your
imagination thru the lifecasting medium.
If you are afraid to fail you will never succeed.
When you need instruction or direction on how
to get started, contact us and we will be
happy to help and direct you
Eaglewood Sculpts
Artist/Sculptor Clay Williams
Clay@eaglewoodsculpts.com
810-358-0209
www.eaglewoodsculpts.com
Imlay City, MI