Sculpture, cut and welded steel, cast from a live model, 2025
A torso in steel, built inside a mould taken from a live body. The cast started in silicone and plaster, became a glazed ceramic piece, and was then wrapped in plaster again to make a new negative for steel.
For a month I cut small steel pieces and welded them together inside that mould. Out of the mould the surface was rough, so I worked it with the angle grinder until it shone. It felt like painting.
A self-initiated piece. As a kid I saw metal sculptures in shopping centres and was always drawn to them. This was me finding out that I can make one too.
The silicone skin, picking up every detail of the body.Silicone inside a plaster jacket: the mould for the ceramic version.The plaster mould for the steel version.Inside the steel mould.Every piece cut, placed and welded by hand.Fresh from the grinder, on its rebar stand: the surface as it first shone.Before the steel rusted into the colour it has today.Lifting the silicone skin off the cast.The silicone shell standing on its own.The plaster mould, held by its steel rod.Front view, held upright.The steel torso in one hand.Three quarter view, standing.Laid flat: the surface reads like scales.The welded pieces from the side.
