Daniel Kavanagh

Contemporary design and elegance of line are beautifully evident in his ceramics and sculptural bronze, where his ability to interpret the Highland landscape through the constant evolution of new forms is clear. His bronzes are Limited Editions pieces where the final surface is highly polished which allows the bare bronze to be exposed and natural reflections visible. 

The Ancient Lost Wax Technique
Firstly I hand form the sculpture in clay, this then needs a rubber mould. Wax is painted on the rubber to create a wax version of the sculpture. The wax is then dipped in ceramic slip. This is repeated until enough bulk is formed around the wax. The ceramic mould is then fired in a kiln up to 700.c to melt the wax and leave a void, once cooled the bronze can be poured into the void left by the wax. When cold the mould is knocked open to reveal the raw bronze cast. Metalworking is the final stage to repair all the casting defects through bronze chasing, finally patinations is applied or polish. 

Ceramic work is made using white earthenware clay and is thrown on the wheel; some pieces are formed using several different parts often creating a strong sculptural quality to the pieces. Applications of metallic lustres to the fired surface illuminate both the richness and reflective quality of the materials used, creating an opulent feel to the work. New work, fuse both ceramic and bronze materials providing an innovative exploration of the two mediums Daniel is most passionate about.