Bronze, the most popular metal for cast metal sculpture, has been used since the time of the Ancient Greeks to make long-lasting, beautiful works of art both for display in public as large memorial works, or in private collections. Why? Because it is the perfect metal medium.

 

Unlike many other metals or metal alloys, bronze alloys have the unusual and desirable property of expanding slightly just before they set, thereby filling the finest details of a mould. Their strength and lack of brittleness (a property called ductility) is an advantage when figures in action are to be created, especially when compared to ceramics, or stone materials These qualities of strength and flexibility allow the creation of extended figures caught in mid-leap, as in Jeté, or figures that have small cross sections in their support, such as the equestrian statues like that of Richard the Lionheart. Modern statuary bronze is 90% copper and 10% tin, but older bronze alloys varied only slightly from this composition.

 

 

Wherever metal could be cast, renowned artists from the great civilizations of the world cast sculpture in bronze. It is highly skilled work which requires attention to detail and a love of form and art. Working with the material is not enough to create a moving, beautiful sculpture. The bronze sculptor must have flawless technique as well as a true artistic eye. Sculptors were originally artists whose work went unsigned but that held great social status because of their skills. Today, bronze artists are renowned and famous for their contribution to public art.

 

There are different methods that a bronze sculptor can use in achieving the best effects possible for his art whether it be in the casting methods he chooses or in the patinas applied in order for metal to become art. These particular methods are what make the transition between a common piece and a dream. Only the greatest bronze sculptors can achieve such heights. Bronze sculptors are not only artists but professionals, masters of their craft.

 

 

Brett Davis is such a master. He works in all facets of non-ferrous metals from welding, fabrication, chasing and fountain design. He has studied and created specialized patina formulas for many Canadian and international artists and also teaches chemical patination and conducts workshops at local art colleges. His art is renowned all over the world and his pieces commissioned in many places.

 

Visit Brett Davis on his main website at www.ageofbronze.ca  where you can view his works and get in contact with him.