Our first program for The Ark exhibition explores the process and technologies used for two of the exciting works in the show – one of which uses the latest technologies in sculpture making (3D printing), and the other a demonstration of one of the most historic sculpture techniques (the ‘lost wax’ technique featuring the use of clay hand-modeling for casting bronze). Even more thrilling – the two artists come from Europe, here only briefly for the opening of the exhibition. A rare opportunity all around!

Artist Daniel Firman wants to talk about the elephant in the room… the elephant. Friman’s Le Sommeil en Forêt (The Sleep in the Forest), a life-size sculpture of an elephant, can be seen balancing on its trunk front and center in The Ark. This sculpture was made via a special 3-D printing process and printed specifically for this exhibition. Fresh flown in from overseas, Firman invites audiences to an inside look at his creative process and what it took to bring this colossal figure to life. Firman will be joined in conversation by The Church co-founder April Gornik. Following his discussion there will be a brief Q&A with the audience.

Then, with the quiet stealth of a jungle cat, artist Patrick Villas invites the audience to witness a live sculpting session in our studio space. The sculptor of Monumental Walking Panther, 2021, and Cheetah, 2006, which are both included in The Ark, will present a live demonstration of his process while Edwina Van der haegen offers a technical explanation of what is occurring. Following the demonstration there will be a Q&A with the audience.

Join us for this very special event. Space is limited so get your tickets early and avoid the waitlist!

Stop in during our exhibition hours, Thursday – Monday between 11 AM – 5 PM to see both artists’ work included in The Ark. For more information about the exhibition please visit our exhibition page.