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Crafting Weathervanes I derive my ability to create fine copper weathervanes from great
teachers such as the Tinkhams and my mentor Richard Bernier, though over
the years I have developed my own style. I am recognized for my ability to capture a
subject's character and spirit in copper, as well as my unique use of accents. For
example, I embellish several of my weathervanes with 23 karat GOLD
LEAF, Palladium (a non-tarnishing silver substitute), and realistic glass eyes to
highlight a subject's features. Because these highlights do not corrode or fade, they
remain a prevalent part of the design for years to come. Since the Weathervane is viewed from a distance, its design requires emphasis on the
overall pattern, therefore I enhance certain design characteristics such as profile,
facial detail and contour lines. I draw my designs full size on paper and transfer them to
copper I visualize the finished part before I begin. The details are "chased" into
the design by repousse'-hammering the sheet-copper using different hammers and special
shaping tools that I fashion myself. The repousse' technique in weathervane making is
borrowed from goldsmiths, silversmiths, and the noble blacksmith, who have been familiar
with it for centuries. This process produces relief with a richly sculptured surface.
Next, I stretch the copper into the subject's shape by hammering it against different
surfaces such as wood, rubber, or even a stack of newspapers. Then, beating the copper
against a hard surface, such as steel or granite, smoothes the hammer marks. Once the
sides have the desired shape, I hammer a solder edge along
At this point I clean the weathervane and attach the eyes, if
applicable. I often bring my weathervanes to life with realistic glass
eyes that are created for taxidermy. These detail- accurate, hand fired
and colored glass eyes are an art form unto themselves. Last, I apply
Gold Leaf, verdigris, or bronze patina. Then I place the figure on a
post in my studio so as to be viewed for the first time.
Weathervanes by David Ferro - Bio and Portfolio If
you would like to learn how to make your own weathervanes, David offers
one class each year. |
Ferro Weathervanes
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