The Art of Lost-Wax Casting

Quarters
Winter Signature
Location
Olympia
Class Standing
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
Pamela Davis

Lost-wax casting is an ancient metalsmithing technique that has been used for thousands of years to create 3D art. In this course students will learn the fundamental techniques of lost-wax casting to make small-scale designs in bronze and sterling silver. The course will cover how to create models in wax, how to use a centrifugal caster, and a vacuum caster. Casting directly from organic materials will be discussed and demonstrated. Students will make a mold of one of their designs to create multiples. Additionally, students will take part in reflective writing assignments and peer critiques. The studio-art component of the course will be supplemented with readings throughout the quarter to provide historical context.

Anticipated Credit Equivalencies:

4 - Fine Metals: Lost-Wax Casting

Registration

Successful completion of Fine Metals: Foundations or equivalent experience.

Signature Required

Students are required to have successfully taken Fine Metals: Foundations or have equivalent experience.

Academic Details

Studio Art, Craft, Design, Visual Arts

4
24
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior

$170 fee covers material fees for assignments ($120) and a required studio fee ($50).

Schedule

Winter
2026
Signature
In Person (W)

See definition of Hybrid, Remote, and In-Person instruction

Weekend
Schedule Details
Olympia