n, 1. that which has been made or has become greater in quantity or dimension.
2. a reproduction on a larger scale.
The process of enlarging a scale model to life -size is a long and tiresome one. This is a complete resculpting of the piece in a larger size. Literally tons of clay must be applied and hand worked. It will not be an exact replica of the 1/3rd size piece, nor would the artist want it to be. In these modern times, many alternatives to the old methods are available but not always desirable. There are many aspects of a smaller piece which can look distorted in a larger size. The artist needs the freedom to change things about his original vision as the piece develops until the life-size piece becomes a fresh execution of the smaller idea.
The Secretariat sculpture is being enlarged using a 3 point system. This involves the use of box frames around the maquette as well as the life-size piece. They are numbered the same, that is to say, the small frame has *regular* inches and the large frame has enlarged inches that each equal 3 normal inches.
The 1st photo (above) shows the maquette in it's frame (extensions will be used for Ron Turcotte as well as Eddie Sweat.)
The 2nd and 3rd photos show the large frame in place and Ed beginning to construct the armature for the horse. The basic Armature is constructed of steel rebar as well as a large steel pipe (from the base to the belly of the horse and visible in the 3rd photo.) It will support the weight of the clay.
In these photos Ed is welding the armature structure together. The basic outline of Secretariat can be clearly seen in the 3rd photo.
To make the clay softer and easier to work with, heat will be used in various ways throughout the process. Here you can see a heat lamp above a tub warming large quantities at the same time. Often the clay gets so hot that it can be dangerous, causing severe burns and blisters. Gloves are usually worn but occasionally accidents happen. The rule is. . .if it's shiny, don't touch it! It's way too hot!
Copyright © 2003 Bogucki Studios and Katherine Bogucki All rights reserved.