portrait-sculpture.com

[Glenn Michaels]

Piece in progress: Horus. Medium: Plasticene & Wax. Armature is mostly .5 inch PVC. Dimensions: 27 x 21 19 inches. Approx weight: 45 - 50 lb.

As shown, one hand is plasticene, the other wax. I have made a wax version of the plasticene hand, just haven't attached it,yet.


I'm looking for guidance on casting, in particular. This is the largest piece I've made... and it will require a base I've yet to design. I've cast multiple smaller pieces in years past - in Forton - but this one exceeds my current knowledge base.

I would also like to know:

1) If there is a particular type of oil that could be used to smooth / work the surface of plasticene?
2) What sorts of rubber mold can I use that won't react with the plasticene?
3) Considering the size and complexity of the piece, would I be better off getting a professional to creat the mold and cast it? I'm thinking resin or forton; bronze is likely too costly. Any cost range estimates? Please indicate the region - as I'm sure rates vary by area.
4) Open to any other tips or comments you may wish to offer.

[Alison Belt]

1) If there is a particular type of oil that could be used to smooth / work the surface of plasticene?
2) What sorts of rubber mold can I use that won't react with the plasticene?
3) Considering the size and complexity of the piece, would I be better off getting a professional to creat the mold and cast it? I'm thinking resin or forton; bronze is likely too costly. Any cost range estimates? Please indicate the region - as I'm sure rates vary by area.
4) Open to any other tips or comments you may wish to offer.

1. Brian Booth Craig uses a citrus based degreaser to smooth Chavant. You can also use a few other solvents, but the citrus based ones are non-toxic and evaporate eventually. He has some videos posted on his Instagram that show how he uses it.

2. It depends on what clay you are using. Non-sulphur based clays will not react with silicone, but sulphur will inhibit silicone cure, so you would have to seal the surface with a spray sealant (Krylon Clear works well) first.

3. This is a more complex mold. You would need to remove the hands and cast them separately. While you could probably do it, there is a learning curve.

I know this is rather late, so I hope that helps you out.

[Glenn Michaels]

It did. Thanks. I'm still working on the piece so the delay was not an issue.
Happy holidays.