Molding Stag Leap – Prepping the Original Sculpture February 21, 2010 Tim stands with the final original clay sculpture of Stag Leap. After the mold making process is complete the original will have done it’s job and will be torn down to become another sculpture. Tim’s studio and Stag Leap are being prepared for the mold making process. Everything is removed from the studio that does not need to be there and the floors are covered, as things are about to get very messy. Many sculptors have other people create their molds but not Tim; he learned to make molds in the studio of friend and sculptor Garland Weeks over 20 years ago. Dave Trock, wax pourer and mold maker extraordinaire, graciously drove his van from Colorado to help Tim with this process. Dave and Tim are starting to cut apart the original in order to create sections and panels that can be handled with more ease by everyone. Antlers come off, Tim and a skill saw, SCARY, look out Dave! By creating smaller parts the foundry can pour them with one crucible of bronze. After the parts are removed, they are set on a cushioned surface, protecting the detail of the sculpture. One leg and hoof along with an antler are ready for molding. Stag Leap’s body is divided into sections which will become pourable panels. Tikka dog sneaks into the studio for the last time as rubber plaster and long haired dog fur is not a good mix. Bye, Bye Tikka!