At the heart of sculptural art is a silent but indispensable figure: the artistic foundry. Although it often remains in the background, its role is key for an artistic idea to become a physical, solid and lasting work of art.
At Capa Esculturas we have been accompanying artists, institutions and galleries for almost a century, from the first sketch to the final installation. But what exactly is an artistic foundry and what role does it play in the art world?
What is an artistic foundry
An artistic foundry is much more than a metal workshop: it is a creative, technical and artisanal space where sculptural ideas take physical form. In this type of foundry, projects are developed with a unique approach, where every detail matters. Here, works of art are born from physical models, sketches or digital files, and transformed into durable sculptures, usually in materials such as bronze, aluminium, brass or highly corrosion-resistant types of stainless steel.
It is neither a simple technical reproduction nor an automated process. Artistic casting requires a combination of aesthetic sensitivity, technical precision and a profound knowledge of sculptural language. Each step of the process is adapted to the expressive needs of the artist, taking care of textures, proportions, finishes and patinas with an almost surgical dedication.
Unlike an industrial foundry, whose main objective is the mass production of functional or mechanical parts, an artistic foundry works with unique works or limited series. This allows for a much more personalised treatment, where factors such as visual balance, conceptual intention or integration in an architectural space or in public spaces come into play.
In addition, each project involves constant decision-making: from the choice of the most suitable material to the modelling, such as the most appropriate casting technique. Everything is done in close dialogue with the artist, establishing an active collaboration in which technique is always at the service of artistic expression.
Main functions of an artistic foundry
A foundry translates artistic vision into physical form
The essential task of an artistic foundry is to turn the sculptor’s idea into a solid and lasting physical reality. This transformation can begin with a variety of formats: a sketch on paper, a clay model, a plasticine model or a 3D digital file. In all cases, the challenge is to faithfully respect the artist’s vision, maintaining the original proportions, volumes and aesthetic language, even when representing the human figure.
The process requires a technical interpretation of the design, where decisions are made about scaling, assembly and structural stability. In large-scale works, this may involve splitting the piece into sections or reinforcing it internally to ensure its strength, especially in outdoor or public exhibition installations.
Providing expert technical advice
A good artistic foundry does not just melt metal: it accompanies the artist at every stage of the project. Their advisory role is essential to ensure that the work is not only visually stunning, but also technically feasible.
This involves selecting the most suitable material (bronze, stainless steel, aluminium, brass, etc.) according to the environment, use or budget available. Aspects such as weather resistance, stability on pedestals, or anchoring techniques in the space where the piece will be displayed are also evaluated.
In addition, the foundry proposes finishing solutions – such as patinas, polishes or textures – that enhance the visual effects of the final result, in line with the message or emotion that the artist wants to convey.
Conservation and reproduction of sculptures
Many artistic foundries play a key role in the preservation of historical heritage. Using specialised techniques, they can restore works damaged by time, exposure to weather, inclement weather or even vandalism.
They are also responsible for reproducing historical sculptures or certified editions, guaranteeing fidelity to the original, which is particularly important in museums and private collections.
In these cases, we work with documentary archives, old moulds or 3D scans of the pieces, applying both traditional techniques and digital tools, including 3D modelling software and 3D animation processes, to preserve the essence of the original work. This work ensures that relevant works are not lost and can be enjoyed by new generations. Digital backup copies are even generated to ensure their future preservation.
Supporting cultural institutions and projects
Artistic foundries are a fundamental pillar in the development of large-scale cultural projects. Their technical capacity, together with their experience in public and monumental sculpture, makes them regular collaborators of museums, galleries, public bodies, foundations and universities.
From commemorative monuments to contemporary installations, the artistic foundry provides solutions adapted to each context, taking into account urban space, foot traffic or the requirements of the climatic environment.
Many of these works are part of the fine art and contemporary art circuit and form part of exhibitions that analyse the beginning of the 20th century. At Capa Esculturas we have worked on sculptures for cities, international exhibitions and institutional spaces, where we not only execute the work, but also participate in the logistical planning, transport, assembly and subsequent maintenance.
Types of customers of an artistic foundry
An artistic foundry works with diverse profiles, from emerging creators to established names in contemporary art. Some of its main clients are:
- Visual artists and sculptors.
- Public or private institutions.
- Museums and art galleries.
- Architectural studios
- Interior design studios.
- Private collectors.
At Capa Esculturas we have had the privilege of participating in projects of different scales, always adapting to the technical and creative needs of each work.
The contribution of Capa Sculptures to the artistic process
In our artistic foundry we combine tradition and technology to achieve unique results. We have a highly qualified team and cutting-edge tools that allow us to give shape to any artistic vision. Our resources include:
- Seven-axis milling robot, ideal for creating large-format models with maximum precision.
- High fidelity in the reproduction of materials, guaranteeing accuracy and detail in each piece.
- Advanced 3D modelling software, with which we develop complex designs with creative freedom.
- Proprietary technology developed Ad Hoc, adapted to customised projects according to the needs of each artist.
- Exclusive handcrafted finishes, with bespoke patinas that respect the traditional essence of each work.
Thanks to this combination of digital techniques and artisanal know-how, we are able to accompany artists and creators in all phases of the sculptural process, always maintaining quality as a hallmark.
The importance of the technical process and craftsmanship in sculpture
Art foundries are spaces where ideas are forged, material is transformed and sculpture is brought to life. Beyond the technical process, their true value lies in their ability to materialise the intangible: emotions, forms, stories.
At Capa Esculturas, we understand that each work is unique. That is why we work with precision, sensitivity and respect for art, putting all our technical knowledge and craftsmanship at the service of the creator.