SCULPTURE
Born of whimsy, the joy of creation, and the camaraderie of teamwork, we love making large scale sculptures as landmarks for memory. The moments atop a gargantuan lily petal, under the wingspan of a giant owl, or the in the gaze of a technicolor raccoon, make unique impressions. We strive to make sculptures that alter people's sense of scale, proximity and possibility, while amplifying natural forms.
Our pieces haves shown at short term, long term, and permanent exhibitions around the continent. Each piece brings together a new team, often comprised of familiar players. We treasure our community of collaborators-- talented makers, craftspeople, and artists.
Our process for commissioned work generally follows a four phase process that allows our imaginative unfurling to work with producers & clients with consistent ease and follow through.
Phase 1: Research, conceptual Design & Illustration
We start by researching the forms, characters and stories that inspire the piece, allowing the nature of what we are creating to alchemize into an emergent vision. Next, illustrations bring the details forward, and we start to get a sense of scaling and how viewers will interact with the piece by moving around, through, under or atop. At this point, we communicate ideas with venue, clients, and producers to clarify and adapt to the site and setting, as needed. Once the vision is an inspired yes for all, we move on to more detailed renders of the internal structure.
Phase 2: 3D Modeling, Engineering & Materials Research
We make 3D renderings of the internal armatures of our pieces to calibrate weight, height, cantilevers, and ensure a piece that stands up, packs down, ships well, and is easy to assemble and strike on short timelines. For each piece we choose unique materials for skinning, lighting, painting and detailing to create luminous, durable pieces that can exhibit outdoors in wind, rain, heat, and cold.
Phase 3: FabricationWe typically do complete fabrication at our workshop near the shores of the Wilamette River in Portland, OR. For certain pieces with site specific skinning or fabrication features, we complete crafting the piece onsite.
Phase 4: Installation
Our installations usually require 1-2 days per sculpture. We generally need a site that can be accessed by reach fork or crane, and often box lift, to complete installation in a safe and timely fashion. We are experienced working with local inspectors, civic bodies, etc. to ensure installation is to code for local municipalities.
Hurrah! Big art is live!!
Alchemy Arts
9620 NW GERMANTOWN RD
PORTLAND OR 97231
info@alchemyartscollective.com
+1 425 327 4839