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"Umha
Aois" (Irish for "Bronze Age") is an ongoing experimental
project organised on a volunteer basis by a committee formed of artists & archaeologists. Through research and experimentation we
are attempting to rediscover our Bronze Age ancestors' casting methods,
and in the process empower the artists involved with unique approaches
to working in bronze.
The experimental process itself allows the
artists involved greater freedom than any bronze foundry would ever
allow. Although the material (bronze) is familiar, the method (stone
and clay moulds) is new to most. Participants have found that this was
an exciting and empowering experience because of the simplicity
and directness of the techniques. Every artist has an opportunity
to participate in all aspects of bronze casting including the pour
and to see their work develop technically and conceptually.
Umha Aois is a unique
celebration of the Bronze Age. Using the ancient techniques of stone and
clay moulds, artists and archaeologists collaborate to make new artwork and
replicate ancient forms in a symposium context. Bronze is melted and poured
in the open, using experimental charcoal-fired pit furnaces, and until now
the more conventional gas furnace.
Recent projects:
Áras Éanna, Arts, Culture and Heritage Centre on Inis Oírr island,
16th-26th July 2007
An Creagán Visitor Centre, Omagh, Co. Tyrone, June 19th - 30th 2006
Strata Florida, Pontrhydfendigaid, Wales, July 8th - 10th 2006
Kells, Co. Kilkenny, August 12th - 13th 2006 |
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