Three experienced craftsmen and craftswoman discuss their work and approach to Building Crafts.
The first talk, 'London Stone Carving: Sculpture in Stone' is by Sam Lee.
Sam Lee is a stone carver, sculptor, and Director at London Stone Carving Ltd. Sam discusses stone carving in the 21st Century, the working practice at LSC, and share some of their most notable projects.
London Stone Carving Ltd are a multi award winning team of craftsmen, creating classical and contemporary sculpture as well as fine architectural stonework.
The second talk, 'Contemporary Woodcarving' is by Clunie Fretton.
Clunie Fretton is a classically trained sculptor, gilder, and master carver working on private and public commissions in the heritage sector. She has a varied practice ranging from restoration of antiques to production of new work in the classical tradition. Since 2016 she's developed her current practice, Fretton Handley, in partnership with stone carver Felix Handley.
In this talk, Clunie shares with us a selection of completed commissions, noting some of the challenges facing carvers today, and what role sculpture and ornament can have in contemporary architecture today.
The third talk, 'Forged Bronze in Architecture' is by Robert Kranenborg.
Following a short explanation of the differences between the various bronzes used in an architectural context, the talk touches on the ways that we have used it in architecture before. Exploring the unique solutions that hot forging of bronze using traditional blacksmithing techniques can offer. This is illustrated with examples from current work on a private residence in Antigua, a church tower restoration near Liverpool and bronze balustrades in London and Jersey.
Robert Kranenborg trained with a number of contemporary artist blacksmiths in the nineties, started managing projects from concept through to completion from about 2000 and set up Forging Matters in 2009. Work has evolved from contemporary and traditional forge work through public art to high end stair balustrades. It is currently coming full circle with projects incorporating more forge work and becoming highly bespoke, while incorporating more alternative metals to steel.
To watch the recording please click here.