All of Ivan’s sculptures are cast using the «lost wax» process. This is the most precise casting technique in existence, ensuring accurate reproductions of the original sculpture and exquisite detail. «Lost wax» casting dates back thousands of years and is a quite interesting process. While modern methods and materials have improved the technique, it is still an extremely labor intensive and expensive process.
After Ivan sculpts the original, a mold is made. Molten wax is then «slushed» into the hollow mold and poured out, leaving a hollow
wax copy of the original. This hollow «wax» is removed and cleaned up by hand, flash removed, imperfections filled, etc. it is then prepared for casting and coated with multiples layers of a rock hard plaster- like material called «shell» When the shell is dry, it is placed in a kiln which melts out the wax inside, hence the name «lost wax.» This leaves a hollow impression inside the «shell,» which is then filled with a molten bronze alloy created especially for art castings. Upon cooling, the shell is chipped off and a «rough casting» is removed.
Now begins and arduous process known as «chasing» which transforms the «rough casting» into a finished work of art. Many hours of welding, grinding, sanding and polishing make up the «chasing» process. The piece is now polished and ready for its color to be applied the «patina.» This is applied using torches and special chemicals mixes to achieve the colors and hues desired by the artist. Next a coating of wax is applied to the surface while it is hot. This serves to protect the surface from oxidation and also gives the finished bronze its luster. A base is now designed by the artist, cut and polished by a marble expert and the sculpture is finally mounted. In the final step Ivan inspects each piece for quality. After everything is to his satisfaction, he applies the unique edition number that marks it as unique and as authentic.
Every individual sculpture that Ivan produces must go through this extensive process. The individual attention that each piece receives, combined with small edition sizes ensures that Ivan’s sculptures will appreciate in value and will last indefinitely.