Sunday 6 May 2012

Sheet metal

I wanted to see if I could use the sheet metal to create something similar to the amulets which I had seen at The Pitt Rivers. Particularly the ones which were of people and animals.

Metal amulets - Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford





The metal was easy to cut, using scissors. I used a copper hammer and a mini anvil to pound the metal. Not only did this flatten it but it also gave it a distressed, aged look and got rid of the severe scissor edge. I used different tools to etch, scratch and create patterns in the metal. Finally, I added oil paint with a sponge which gave the metal a burnished look and aged feel.

I made the following animal amulets and researched superstitions related to the animals:

Monkey
An amulet carried during exams or tests to allow the person the ability to think through complex problems.




Fish
Wise and knowledgeable. Given to a person by someone who as told them a secret and want them to be silenced.




Donkey
The hairs from a donkey's cross were cures for ailments. Worn in a charm around the neck to guard against whooping-cough,toothache, fits and to ease teething in babies; sometimes the hairs were eaten in a sandwich!














Crocodile
Crocodile blood cures eye problems and snakebites.




This technique was simple and I think it is something which would be good to try in the workshop at the museum.


Link to the Small Blessings blog  http://pittrivers-amulets.blogspot.co.uk/

Link to the Flickr page  http://www.flickr.com/photos/76253275@N03/sets/72157629496147470/

Photos to follow...


Casting

I now have 2 workable 2-part moulds,ready for experimenting with casting - an arm and a leg.

I would like to try casting in plaster, wax, resin, maybe even ice.

When the casts are finished I want to try putting them together with other materials including leather, textiles, beads, wire, metal, food stuff etc...
One member of the Pitt River's Mind group is working on a 'hunting votive'. He is currently making a pig 2-part mould and will then cast it. He wants to put an arrow head, leather thong and beaded fabric with this. This is similar to the object which he drew at the museum on the first session.
John, another member is creating Siligum moulds of some old medals/coins, ehich were his Grandads. He will then cast them in plaster of Paris. John has also made a start on a clay fox.
Adam, the Mind group carer is creating work based on owls. He has made a start on a clay owl which he is adding textures by using shells pressed into the clay. I suggested maybe using some other materials with his such as feathers, wire or fabrics. Maybe Adam could look at some other detailed parts of the owl, such as the talons, the feathers, beak, eyes and use these to inspire another piece of work.