Mantle | Glass sculpture

by Anna Alsina Bardagí

About the artwork

 

Title: Mantle

Material: Eco optical glass

Edition: Unique artwork

Process: Cast glass, polished, and sandblasted

Dimensions: 20.8 H x 28.2 W x 12.5 cm (8.2 H x 11.1 W x 4.9 in)

Weight: 19 kg (44 lbs)

Year created: 2018

FAQs about Mantle glass sculpture

What techniques were used to create Mantle?

Mantle was created using glass casting and cold-working methods. The two suspended layers inside the sculpture were achieved through controlled surface treatment before firing.

What was the process behind creating this glass sculpture?

Creating Mantle was a detailed process that spanned several weeks. I started by sculpting a prototype out of fine art plasticine. Then, I calculated the required glass blocks—particularly three large pieces—using mathematical formulas to ensure precision.

The floating effects in the center of the sculpture were achieved through a combination of fire polishing and surface treatment before the pieces were melted in the kiln for approximately two weeks. After firing, I spent several weeks on cold working to reach optical transparency.

What type of glass was used to create it?

Mantle was created using Ohara’s eco-optical glass. Its purity and optical properties were instrumental in achieving the final reflections and optical illusions within the sculpture.

How long did it take to bring Mantle to life?

Mantle came to life over the course of about three months. The process required a series of steps, from developing the initial idea and sculpting the prototype to calculating the glass and executing the firing and cold-working phases. Each stage was crucial in shaping the final sculpture’s optical qualities.

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