Processes

Processes that Giblin uses include casting from people, modelling and mould making. Portrait studies are created either from direct observation and sketches or developed from a cast of the subject depending on whether the subject is interested in being directly involved as a cast model or not.

 
Retreat drawing 13
Musician Alex Butcher and 'The Retreat'

After the initial clay head or body is created,  it is layered and carved. The subsequent imagery refers to an individual’s interests or passions and is personal to the subject of the sculpture.

Once a clay piece is fired, it is spray painted to protect it during the casting process then a reproduction is made in cold cast materials or bronze. First a mould is made in two or more pieces using silicone and a supporting case, usually resin and glass fibre. After this stage, the mould is taken to a professional art technician (Giblin works with Lorriane Grandi of Creative Art Casting) and/or metal foundry for casting.     

Giblin’s sculpture is cast in limited editions in bronze, translucent resin or various metal powders mixed with resin (usually bronze, copper or aluminium). The work is usually mounted on granite or marble. External pieces, for siting outdoors, are also cast in granite resin.