Bronze
sculptures are produced in a series, after which the mold is destroyed.
The original clay or wax is not intended to survive, and although it sometimes
does, it is the bronze castings that are considered the artworks. Historically,
for a bronze to be considered an original work of art, it had to be part
of an edition of 12 or less. Because of greatly expanded markets many
artists produce much larger editions, but I prefer to keep my editions
small. Sculptures are not reproductions, and each casting is individually
poured, chased, detailed, numbered and signed. A restricted edition ensures
that each sculpture is perfect and unique.
Other
mediums are used to achieve specific effects, such as wood for its lightness,
or polyurathane for its flexibility and durability. Patinas may be natural
or painted to achieve lifelike realism. Whatever the material, a complete
grasp of the animal's structural anatomy and movement is required to achieve
three dimensional authenticity.