Client: John Safer

Overview

Crafted from artist John Safer’s original model, this sculpture stands tall at a final height of 13 feet and is crafted from 316L stainless steel. The metal finish combines satin and polished surfaces, lending a dynamic visual contrast. In addition to the main sculpture, ART Research also produced “Interplay” in various sizes. For pieces standing at 6 feet high or less, the sculptures were cast in both stainless steel and bronze, offering a range of options to suit different environments and preferences.

Goals

The objective of this commission was to create an "Interplay" sculpture large enough to serve as a captivating centerpiece upon entering the new building. Enlarged from a smaller model, the "Interplay" sculpture now stands at an impressive height of 13 feet. It is installed on a circular disc and rests atop an Absolute Black Granite Base, providing a solid foundation and enhancing its visual impact.

Process

The 13-foot "Interplay" sculpture was meticulously fabricated from 316L stainless steel. Patterns and layouts were precisely cut and assembled according to specific parameters. The metal was then meticulously finished to achieve a high polish on the larger sides and a brushed finish on the smaller sides. Each section was welded onto a circular disc for stability.
For the 6-foot and smaller versions of "Interplay," both stainless steel and bronze casting were employed. Each pattern was initially 3D milled into dense urethane foam, followed by the production of a rubber mold from the pattern. A wax positive was created from the negative rubber mold, then gated and vented for the ceramic shell process. After the ceramic shell was flashed and the wax burned out, leaving a negative space, the metal was poured in.
ART's technicians removed the ceramic shell from the metal, leaving the metal ready for finishing. All sizes of the "Interplay" sculptures were finished to a polished surface, with some editions featuring a combination of polish and satin finishes.