– From the Trenches to the Studio
Hey there, creative souls! Let’s dive into a topic close to my heart (and occasionally, my frustrations) – sculpture armatures. Over the years, I’ve had my fair share of battles with these tricky beasts. So, buckle up as I share the top 10 lessons about armatures I wish I’d known earlier – trust me, it would’ve saved me a heap of hassle.
- First Things First: It’s not just a Skeleton, its there for support
An armature is like the backbone of your sculpture, but remember, unless you are creating a wire sculpture..it’s there to support, not to take the limelight. - You’re the Boss, Not the Armature
If your armature is poking out like an unwanted guest, don’t hesitate to trim it down. Your sculpture’s integrity comes first and the quicker you cut out the offending issue the faster you can fix it and move on. - The Eternal Battle with Rust
Steel armatures and moisture are archenemies. If you’re using water-based clay, coat your armature and screws with a waterproof primer to avoid heartbreak down the line. - Go Big on Strength
Underestimating the strength of your armature is a rookie mistake. Nobody likes a wobbly sculpture. So, if the weight is gonna be an issue opt for thicker steel, wire, or wood to support the weight of your creation. - Preventing the Topple
Sculptures, like life, can be unbalanced. Overengineer the back supports to prevent your artwork from taking an unexpected nosedive. - Embrace the Rubbish Core
Save on clay and weight by filling the bulkier parts with lightweight materials like Urethane Foam (Spacefiller), Styrofoam, Wood, or whatever you have handy that is strong and bulky. It’s what’s on the outside that counts, after all. - Give it some Traction
To keep your clay firmly in place, wrap the main wire with thinner wire or plumber’s tape is a smart move. In my own studio, I’ve sometimes taken the more hands-on approach of using heavy sandpaper and/or pliers to rough up the main wire instead of wrapping it. This technique adds the perfect amount of grip and texture, ensuring your sculpture stays put and doesn’t slip off its foundation. - Worth Every Penny
Investing in good-quality armature wire pays off. Forget the old-school lead pipe; and if you can find it.. opt for square section aluminium wire. - The Delicate Dance of Adjustment
When it comes to posing your armature, it becomes a strategic game of whack-a-mole. Push one side, and you might find another angle looking a bit off. However, never shy away from adjusting the pose to get it just right. The key here is constant vigilance – make sure you’re observing your sculpture from every conceivable angle, all the time. This ongoing process of adjustment and reassessment is crucial for achieving a harmonious and balanced final piece. It’s all part of the dance, and as artists, we’re always learning new steps. - Strength is All – Size Matters
Make an armature that will stand the test of time. My journey with armatures has seen me construct supports for sculptures ranging from a petite 20mm to a towering 5m. For life-sized pieces, galvanized pipe or wood becomes my go-to, and for the really grand projects, I rely on reo bar and rigid foam. However, most of my time is spent sculpting with plasticine or Super Sculpey, creating pieces around 200-250mm in height. Here, steel fencing wire from the local hardware store or aluminum wire from the art shop does the trick. But no matter the size, I have one golden rule: eliminate the wiggle. I can’t stand it when I’m working on a section and the sculpt bounces away from my tools. That steadiness in the armature is non-negotiable, ensuring that my focus stays on the art, not on battling a wobbly structure..
Armatures can be a tricky business, but with these tips, you’re well on your way to mastering this crucial part of sculpture. Remember, at Infinite Arts Studio, we’re all about pushing boundaries and honing our craft. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, we’ve got the tools, the knowledge, and the passion to help you bring your visions to life.
Stay creative and keep sculpting!
