An Introduction to Sculpting
Ferrocement Faux Bois
by Donald R. Tucker
Course Overview:
Ferrocement; any cement-based media, such as concrete or mortar, which is internally reinforced with ferrous metal such as iron or steel, and…
Faux Bois;( Pronounced Foe-'Bwah); French for "False Wood"
Ferrocement Faux Bois is the very nearly lost art form that employs steel and cement-based media to sculpt three dimensional representations of wood and wooden objects. The purpose of this five day course is to provide the basic skills, techniques and information necessary for a craftsperson to create works of their own that are both decorative and functional. Over the five days of the course, each student will construct and finish a project piece of their own design that they can take away.
Course Outline:
Given the volume of information and the limited time available, we will strive to adhere to the schedule below as much as possible. Feel free to ask questions at any time, but if the requested information will be covered in depth during a session to follow, I may postpone any such detailed response in an effort to keep the class moving forward. I have also programmed in a substantial amount of time on the final day specifically for reviewing the entire process and addressing any questions you may have.
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Day One, AM
1. History of the art & media employed
2. Known artisans and works for further study
3. Overview of Media & Materials
4. Overview of Processes
Day One, PM
5. Design & Engineering: Sketch Project, Prep Materials
6. Begin constructing an Armature or Framework
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Day Two, AM
7. Creating Form with Stucco Lath & “Wire Work”
Day Two, PM
7. Creating Form with Stucco Lath & “Wire Work” (Cont’d)
8. Metal Treatments/Corrosion Inhibitors
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Day Three, AM
9. Understanding Cement-Based Media Formulations
10. Employing Admixtures
11. Mixing Techniques
Day Three, PM
12. Mixing & Applying Base Materials
13. Sculpting and Forming Basic Shapes
14. Refining shape & Form
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Day Four, AM
15. Mixing & Applying Finish Coats
16. Finish Coat Sculpting Techniques
Day Four, PM
17. Texture & Details
18. Curing
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Day Five, AM
19. Finishing Options & Techniques
20. Coloring Techniques
21. Sealing Options
Day Five PM
22. Full Process Review with Q&A Session
