Advancing Sustainable Sculpturing Practices at Morley College

12 September 2024

At Morley College London, we are committed to embracing sustainability across all areas of our creative practice, including our Sculpture department. As part of our ongoing efforts to reduce our environmental impact, our team has been exploring new methods for a more sustainable approach to lost wax bronze casting.

Recently, our team received training on a more sustainable process for wax removal from moulds. This involved steaming out the wax and reclaiming it to be recycled rather than burning it out in the kiln with smoke into the atmosphere. While this training provided valuable insights, it also inspired the development of a similar more sustainable method that eliminated the need for additional equipment, such as the steamer.

Instead, our revised approach involves using a low-temperature kiln to melt out the wax, allowing it to be collected in trays and preventing the release of black smoke into the atmosphere. This method not only reduces emissions but also aligns more effectively with our operational needs, allowing for a more efficient and streamlined process within the limited time frame of our courses.

By refining our sculpturing practices in this way, we continue to prioritize sustainability and safety while maintaining the high standards of our creative programs. This step forward is part of our broader commitment to incorporating environmentally friendly practices into all aspects of our work, supporting both our students and staff in creating art that is mindful of its impact on the planet.