Veterans Sculptural AL Casting

Selected date

Tuesday July 26

Selected time

4:00 PM  –  8:00 PM

Rivers of Steel’s Metal Arts team is excited to partner with Evolution Art Studio to welcome United States military veterans for a series of free metal-casting workshops at the Carrie Blast Furnaces. This workshop is located in the Power House building at the Carrie Blast Furnaces and allows for enough physical distancing to keep you comfortable while you create your own aluminum castings. Guest veterans will join members of the public for this unique workshop experience.

This workshop will introduce the process used to create three-dimensional sculptural forms in cast aluminum—patternmaking, mold-making and casting. (Note: Finishing techniques are not covered.) The workshop includes instruction in the use of wax, plasticene (oil-based clay), and various other pattern materials. Most participants make their patterns from several pre-made forms we have in stock. These include vessels, utensils, door pulls, light switch covers, fabric, styrofoam etc. Workshop participants are able to customize their own design to these existing forms, making them unique, or build entirely from scratch using plasticene and wax-working techniques demonstrated during the workshop. Cast aluminum objects can be taken home at the end of the third day of the workshop.

Sculptural Aluminum Casting workshops include up to 10 lbs. of Aluminum, 100 lbs. of sand and corresponding chemical, waste removal and related foundry consumables. Additional sand and chemical needs beyond this allotted amount are available for $.30/lb. Additional metal stock is available at $3/lb.  All additional material fees are required upon pick up of the final castings at the end of the workshop period.

Evolution Art Studio is owned and operated by Jay Elias, a former United States Marine who served during the Gulf War era. Suffering from undiagnosed and untreated PTSD, he wound up on the wrong side of the law and eventually served a lengthy prison sentence. After many years of gradually declining mental health, he discovered the healing effects that art and the creative process can provide to promote both spiritual and emotional wellness. He created Evolution Art Studio to share this holistic approach to healing with other veterans and members of the community alike.

By registering for this workshop, you consent to the terms of our liability waiver which can be found on our website.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

As a former industrial site, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure an enjoyable visit.

  • Masks: Please be advised of our current COVID-19 policies. Masks are to be worn indoors, regardless of vaccination status. 

  • Social distance: Social distancing is no longer mandatory, but we do ask that you be mindful of the people around you, allowing for a comfortable amount of space when possible.
  • What to wear: The majority of this program is indoors. However, the Power House is not temperature controlled; please dress for the weather. Additionally, the ground is uneven—sensible shoes are a must. Sneakers or boots are recommended. Open-toed shoes and high heels are prohibited. 
  • Restrooms & concessions: The rawness of the site is certainly part of its charm. However, that rawness also limits the creature comforts many of us are accustomed to, like running water. Portable bathrooms, hand washing stations and hand sanitizer are available. Food amenities are not available (with some exceptions, such as food trucks at festivals).
  • Photography: Photography is permitted. For safety reasons, videography and drones are prohibited.
  • Accessibility: Handicapped parking is available and there is an ADA ramp into the Power House. Be aware the ground in the parking lot and outside the building is uneven. Contact us to discuss options.
  • Liability: By purchasing admission tickets, all visitors consent to the terms of our liability waiver and consent to be photographed (PDF).
  • Admission: Site access is limited to guided tours, workshops, and events. Unless otherwise noted, all admissions are ticketed.
  • Location: The entrance to the Carrie Furnaces is located at Carrie Furnace Boulevard, Rankin, PA 15104. 

Thank you for following these guidelines. We wish you to have the best visit possible, and appreciate your patience as we continue to improve the visitor experience.

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