Anthony Pollock
An investigation into the creative use of thin-shell and higher aspect ratio forms within studio glass practice.
Aims
- To investigate ways of extending the scope of achievable contemporary studio glass forms that can be created with cast glass, by extending existing glass forming techniques in new directions (Christley, 2006, p.8).
The main objectives are:
- to overcome the limitations of form and aspect ratio that are currently inherent in simple gravity casting of glass into one-piece moulds.
- to investigate the process of controlled mould leakage, ramp-casting and pressure/vacuum forming in the formation of thin-shell and high aspect ratio forms (Cummings, 2002, p. 100).
- to test the feasibility of adapting elements of well-proven industrial processes to hot and/or kiln-cast glass, with particular reference to high aspect-ratio forms.
- to create bodies of work that demonstrate potential new possibilities for studio glass in terms of form, aspect ratio and fine detail.
Rationale
The research is intended to develop practical studio processes that begin to overcome some of the current limitations of gravity casting of hot or kiln-melted glass (air entrapment and viscosity restrictions etc - Cummings, 1980, p.135) and metal casting mould cooling stress (Casting Technology International, nd). Within the metal casting industry, advanced techniques have been developed that extend the range of available forms that can now be created (Comarteau, nd). The research project by Thwaites and Seybert (2002) has extended the understanding of contemporary glass mould technology, but not the actual casting techniques themselves.
Outline methodology:
- empirical methodologies out of studio practice as an artist.
- speculative production and reflection on developing studio artwork, including drawings, photographs and production of glass artefacts.
- comparative case studies of practitioners of studio glass (genres), with consideration of formal limitations of current production methods.
- research references to processes within the metal casting industry.
- materials technology, development and testing of processes and allied materials.
Original contribution
This research will extend the range of possible forms and processes available to the studio glass practitioner, that would previously have been unattainable. An additional aim of the research will be to develop and document safe, practical methodology for the studio glass maker that does not require extension to industrial complexity or cost. A further aim is to enable new techniques to be safe and accessible to the 'solo' studio glass practitioner.
Indicative Reading
- Christley, J. and Evans, C. (2006). British Glass Biennale 2006 (catalogue). Stourbridge: International Festival of Glass.
- Comarteau, J. (nd). [Internet]. LPSC and Replicast: a winning combination for high quality casting components in steel or super alloys. Available from: http://www.castingstechnology.com [15th February 2007]
- Cummings, K. (1980). The technique of glass forming. London: The Anchor Press.
- Cummings, K. (2002). A history of glass forming. London: A & C Black.
- Thwaites, A. and Seybert, K. (2002). Mixing with the best. RCA research project. Available on CD, Publication unknown.
