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Form and Craft

Modeling with clay in portrait sculpture represents only one part of the entire process. Before reaching this stage, it requires a thorough study of the subject, an exploration of character, visualizations, design concepts, and compositional solutions, including the placement of the piece in its intended space.
Creating a bust is not merely mechanical copying of a face. Today, we have 3D scanners and printers that can accurately replicate human features. However, modeling a portrait in clay is not about perfect replication but about interpretation. A direct copy of a real face in a monochromatic material can appear flat and, as a result, often loses its character. A sculptor—whether using digital tools or traditional techniques—can enhance or diminish certain facial features by up to one-fifth. Surprisingly, these subtle modifications create a greater sense of realism than a precise mechanical copy. At this stage, craftsmanship evolves into art. Therefore, the freedom of the creator and their personal input become essential in shaping the final expression.
After this creative phase, the process moves on to casting, which, in my view, is more of a technical and craft-based procedure. Unlike the modeling phase, it has little to do with artistic exploration and often overshadows the “noble” creative aspect of sculpture. Because of this, I find this stage less appealing. Nonetheless, modern sculptors often need to master it themselves in order to complete their work independently. Ultimately, every sculpture results from a well-thought-out process. It not only materializes an idea but also carries the artist’s message, thereby giving it unique value.