International Wildlife Sculptor · Somerset & Zimbabwe
Captured in
bronze,
alive in the wild
Jan Sweeney works in wax and bronze — modelling in the field, from life, in the African bush and across the English countryside. Every piece holds the energy of that moment.
The Work
Jan Sweeney sculpture is instantly recognisable — full of energy, movement and strong texture with trademark hollow eyes. A compelling feature of the big cat and wildlife sculpture.
— Jan Sweeney MRSS · SAA
In Jan's Words
"I always work from life — taking the modelling wax to the subject, even in the Zambezi valley. I have been inspired by watching these animals in their natural habitat, especially in the untouched wilderness which is still to be found in Africa. There the unwary die, so even when an animal is at rest it is ready to flee. It is the untamed strength and power always ready to explode into movement that I want to translate into a bronze sculpture."
"I first went to Zimbabwe in 1990 for a holiday, left my clothes behind saying 'I will be back'. In 1991 I returned with the intention to make wildlife sculpture. From that point I had to learn to work in wax, to make moulds and to cast bronze. My first foundry was on a friend's farm with my African worker Killion to assist me."
The collection
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Collection
African Wildlife
I take wax into the bush — hollow shapes filled with wet newspaper, kept cool in cold water boxes. I work from life whenever possible.
Explore Wildlife
Collection
Hares
It was the "movement" I wanted to capture — bounding, ears laid back, each leap covering yards, capable of turning on a sixpence.
Explore Hares
"Had a brilliant time at the workshop — Jan is a fantastic sculptor and shares a wealth of information. She clearly explains the techniques, helping you to produce some great first models. I learnt a great deal and look forward to developing my skills further."Jackie · August 2018 · Sculpture Course
"I am happy to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the clay course with Jan. It was inspiring to learn from her experience and to learn new techniques to try out at home. I recommend this course to any aspiring sculptor from beginner upwards!"FWE · Sculpture Course
From Studio to Foundry
The ancient art of casting in bronze can seem a mysterious and intimidating process. Jan demystifies the practice and offers two complete projects that will enable any artist to prepare their work for casting at a foundry.
The essential reference for any artist wishing to produce their work in bronze.
Buy the bookLearn lost-wax bronze casting with Jan
Small groups, hands-on from day one. Jan takes you from modelling in wax through to understanding the foundry process — whether you're a complete beginner or an experienced ceramic artist.
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