Workshop

There are a number of procedures involved in the making of a sculpture, irrespective of the material to be used. The primary is sketching; laying down ideas and exploring concepts to key into a theme. The next phase is the modelling, whether in clay, balsa wood, polystyrene or wax or plaster, this may be a maquette or a working scale model. Material must then be sourced, if stone, this inevitably entails a trip to a quarry to look at the quality of the bedrock and choose a suitable block for the intended piece. Wood also requires inspection to anticipate any splits or stress cracks that may develop at later stages of carving when much time has been invested in a piece. With bronze, after full scale modelling, most of the work is carried out in conjunction with foundry personnel. Upon completion of a work, transport and setting in place are the next phase

The drawing studio, in a garden setting, is small, convenient and relaxed in atmosphere for the contemplative task of exploring on paper themes and schemes that may come to fruition.

Chantilly is the name of the workspace where modelling in various mediums and sizes is done and letter carving, masoning and sculpture of modest scale are carried out. Its open courtyard is most suitable for the handling of medium size blocks of material and the half-doors are very functional when carving in relief or lettering

Granite of superb quality is sourced at Walsh's quarry, in a Dublin mountain setting overlooking the city. Its unique size of mica and hardness makes it an excellent material for sculpture form and longevity when exposed to the elements. A great advantage in choosing stone at this location is the access to the beds of stratification to determine the best cutting way for the complex task of sculpting a work.