The Brutal and the Delicate: Steel Combined With Soft Materials

In this foundational paper-making workshop, students transform pulp into unique cast-paper sculptures. Starting with dry abaca pulp, we dive into the process of reconstituting, beating, dying, and casting sheets with a traditional mold and deckle. Abaca paper is characterized by long fibers with impressive wet strength, making it ideal for manipulation. We mold the wet sheets onto objects from home, around the studio, or in the environment. Sewing and gluing aids in combining dried paper objects into sculptural creations.

The course is a hands-on exploration of the methods of green sand casting, leading students in the process of using sand as a recyclable mold material to cast hot metal. We explore the techniques of creating a simple rigid pattern in wood, plaster, or a PLA 3D print. A wooden box, called a flask, is created to hold the sand mold and molten metal is then poured into the sand to take the shape of the pattern. This process can be repeated from scratch rapidly and allows for the sand to be recycled and used again, making it an economical and ecological method for working through ideas quickly. Class time consists of in-depth demonstrations balanced with plenty of studio work time for exploration, experimentation, and finishing. Must be 18 years old to participate. 

Anderson Ranch’s January Studio Sessions provide artists the opportunity to work on independent projects while receiving mentoring and critique sessions with Anderson Ranch artistic staff and interns. Each participant receives an assigned studio space, orientation, and access to equipment, as well as some morning group demonstrations and / or critiques. This program affords artists the experience enjoyed by national and international artists who access our state-of-the-art studios. Participants may expand their practices, take artistic risks, try new media or complete works for exhibition. *Studios are open 24 hours a day and on weekends for students enrolled in multiple weeks, with limited use of equipment due to safety requirements. The machine rooms are only available when monitored – weekdays 9 AM-5 PM. Evening monitoring hours are Mondays - Thursdays, 7 – 9 PM. IMPORTANT DETAILS: Students will be responsible for all material costs associated with their projects. Participants who register for multiple consecutive weeks will gain access to the studios on weekends (with the exception of the machine rooms due to safety constraints.) Private dorm rooms are available at Anderson Ranch for one, two or three weeks for an additional fee; click here to view January 2025 lodging options. TO APPLY: Applicants must submit project proposals or portfolios for approval. Contact Betsy Alwin to apply: [email protected]