Where Bronze Comes Alive

A Behind-the-Scenes Foundry Experience

Here at the gallery, we present and enjoy many finished masterpieces - artworks which have been planned, developed and created over time. But, like many of our visitors, we love to hear the stories of the journey behind these pieces - what happens behind the scenes.

Earlier this year, our gallery team had the opportunity to witness this transformative process firsthand, visiting the Sculpture Castings foundry, where some of our most popular bronze sculptures begin their life. 

We learnt about the intricate process of creating these exceptional pieces and met the talented individuals who breathe life into metal. It was an amazing experience.

The Alchemy of Bronze and Human Imagination

Using the traditional ‘lost wax process’, the artists begin with wax modelling clay, crafting their vision with meticulous attention to detail. This initial sculpture then becomes the template for a silicone mould, which is coated with terracotta and fired in a kiln. When molten bronze is poured in, the wax melts away – hence the name of this technique.

During the visit, we met sculptor Adam Paddon, who is also the gallery's head patinator. It’s this artistic touch which transforms cold metal into vibrant art. Patination is the process of applying acids and oxides, then precisely heating, to give each piece its unique colour and texture to bring these sculptures to life. To finish the piece, wax layers are added, enhancing the colours and creating completely unique individual pieces in runs limited to just 25 editions.

The foundry also produces the works of Adam Binder, whose sculptures have quickly become gallery favourites. Whether capturing the grace of an otter, the poise of a leopard, or the playfulness of a polar bear, Binder has an extraordinary ability to capture the essence of his subjects. 

This was an incredible chance for us to learn more about the work that goes into each of these pieces, and watching them take shape in the foundry has certainly deepened our appreciation for this work.

Get in touch if you’d like to know more about any of these pieces or the work.