The Art of Collaboration: Behind the Scenes with Brett Barney and the Foundry Process

Behind the Scenes with Brett Barney and the Foundry Process

Unveiling the Creative Journey: The people the process

In the world of monumental art, the true magic lies not just in the finished piece, but in the meticulous process that brings it to life. The recent video showcasing Brett Barney and the exceptional team at American Fine Arts Foundry offers a glimpse into this transformative journey—one that combines raw talent, precision, and collaboration.

The AFA talent. Photography b Michael Glock Ph.D.

Crafting a Vision

Every great sculpture begins with an artist’s vision. Brett Barney’s role is to take that vision and channel it through a process honed by years of expertise. With 47 years of business history and Brett’s 20 years at the helm, the foundry is now home to second- and even third-generation family members who grew up immersed in this craft. Mentored by their parents and grandparents, these artisans carry forward a legacy of talent and dedication that has been shaped over multiple generations.

The video captures the essence of this partnership. It highlights the collaborative conversations between artists and artisans, where ideas are exchanged, challenges are addressed, and innovations are born. Brett’s ability to translate artistic intent into tangible reality is not just a skill—it’s a craft in itself.

“The talent here has been honed over multiple generations. We are now on second and sometimes third-generation family members who grew up with their parents or grandparents in this industry and these creative endeavors.”
~ Brett Barney

The Process: Precision Meets Passion

The Process: Precision Meets Passion. Photography by Michael Glock Ph.D.

Viewers are taken on a journey through the foundry’s intricate workflow, which centers on the ancient technique of lost wax casting—a method refined through generations. Here is how the process unfolds:

  1. Mold Making: If the original artwork is clay, the first step is creating a master mold. This mold serves as the blueprint for all subsequent stages.
  2. Wax Casting: From the master mold, wax replicas are created. These wax pieces are meticulously cleaned and refined by wax chasers, ensuring every detail is captured perfectly.
  3. Gating and Shell Casting: Once the wax is ready, it is gated and moved to the shell room. Here, layers of ceramic shell are applied to encase the wax. This shell is later burned out in the foundry department, leaving a hollow mold.
  4. Bronze Pouring: The hollow ceramic shells are heated, and molten bronze is poured into them. This step demands exacting precision and skill, as the bronze takes the shape of the original artwork.
  5. Cleaning and Sandblasting: After the bronze cools, the shell material is removed, and the castings are sandblasted to prepare them for the next stage.
  6. Metal Chasing and Assembly: The castings are welded together by the metal chasing department. Here, artisans blend the seams seamlessly, ensuring the finished piece looks flawless.
  7. Patina and Finishing: The final stage involves applying patinas to achieve the desired aesthetic, followed by base mounting if required. Larger pieces are packed, shipped, and installed by the team with meticulous care.

The Talent Behind the Tools

The Talent Behind the Tools

The video doesn’t just focus on the process—it celebrates the people. Brett Barney and his team are shown at their best, working with an almost symphonic coordination. These artisans, mentored by the best in the industry, bring a unique blend of expertise and passion to every project. Their work goes beyond technical skill; it’s about preserving the integrity of the artist’s vision.

Monumental Results

The final moments of the video reveal the finished work, standing as a testament to what’s possible when talent, process, and collaboration converge. These sculptures are not just objects; they are stories cast in bronze, destined to inspire generations.

Why It Matters

Art foundries like American Fine Arts play a pivotal role in preserving and elevating the cultural landscape. They ensure that monumental works of art are not only realized but also endure for centuries. Brett Barney’s leadership exemplifies the spirit of innovation and dedication that drives this industry forward.

Whether you’re an artist looking to bring your vision to life or an admirer of the transformative power of sculpture, the story captured in this video is a reminder of the beauty and complexity behind every masterpiece.

The Talent Behind the Tools
The AFA Talent Behind the Tools
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