Sunday, December 18, 2022

Low tech approach to bending large metal leaf forms

 

I asked Fiona if she would assist me in bending some curves into the large leaf forms that will become a wall mounted sculptural pieces. Little did she know that assistance would require her bending the Corten steel leaf around a log - see above. A fairly low tech approach!!!!

I chose the log below as the diameter of the log would result in larger and gentler curves; and it was big and heavy enough to hold the leaf form stable.

Another photo of the log in action.

The stem of one of the leaf forms needed a bit more of a curve - so why not use a piece of pipe in the vise.

Stacking the curved leaves as we worked - it also gave us the chance to compare the bending.


Then out on the concrete to check the forms - nice shadows as well.

After a couple of tweaks the metal was given a good sand to get rid of hand oil and then put out to cure - aka rust.

After a shower of rain overnight the rusting process has begun.


Photos by both Fiona and myself.


1 comment:

  1. What a fabulous sequence B! It is always fun to get hands on and help with your work - I get to be an apprentice metalworker for a few minutes and watch your ingenuity at play.

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