In his family-run foundry, Steve Winterburn, a celebrated artist of bronze casting, has mastered age-old techniques in mould-making and the manipulation of molten bronze, drawing upon closely guarded secrets passed down through generations of foundrymen.
Through decades of hard work and dedication, Steve has achieved remarkable milestones as a self-taught artist. His sculptures grace prominent cities across the country, including prestigious stadiums where he has completed major sporting commissions. The unveiling of his monumental public and private commissions has captured the attention of the press and media, with installations showcased in iconic venues such as London's Wembley Stadium, The National Arboretum, and the London Stock Exchange.
With a profound grasp of engineering and design, Steve embarks on a journey of challenge and experimentation fuelled by his unwavering passion. Establishing his own studio in Yorkshire in 2002, he takes on the unique task of personally crafting each sculpture from inspiration to creation—a departure from the conventional approach where various specialized artisans handle distinct stages of production.
Utilizing the lost-wax process, also known as cire perdue, Steve casts his sculptures in bronze—a method steeped in ancient tradition. Here, molten metal is poured into a mold formed around a wax model, only for the wax to be melted away, leaving behind a pristine bronze form. The addition of a carefully applied patina, a thin layer that develops through oxidation and other chemical reactions, imbues the sculpture with depth and vitality, breathing life into the subject.
Steve's artistic evolution is a testament to his commitment to growth and exploration. Inspired by masterful sculptures encountered during a sojourn in Greece, his style has evolved from meticulously detailed work to a more liberated and expressive approach. This metamorphosis reflects his deepening understanding of anatomy and his burgeoning confidence as an artist.
"After a trip to Greece and seeing sculptures by the masters, I was inspired to sculpt so that I could create 'reality'. Over the years, my style has evolved: it has progressed from 'modelled' work with a great amount of detail, to my current style, which is a lot looser. This is because I now understand the anatomy and have gained confidence, which has allowed me to be more expressive with my art."
Driven by his passion for wildlife conservation, Steve's artistic endeavours often intertwine with his experiences during his travels. From learning from a tiger expert in India to seeing with cheetah cubs in Africa, each encounter enriches his understanding and informs his artistry. Recounting a memorable encounter tracking gorillas in the Rwandan mountains, Steve reflects on the awe-inspiring presence of these majestic creatures and the humbling moments of vulnerability encountered amidst their domain.
While the foundry was established in 2002, the techniques employed by the Winterburn family trace their lineage back thousands of years. Drawing inspiration from age-old practices, they have meticulously honed their skills through continuous research and development, blending the timeless wisdom with contemporary advancements in materials and techniques.
Through a harmonious fusion of tradition and innovation, the Winterburn's have curated a unique artistic legacy, characterized by the seamless integration of modern methodologies with time-honoured artisanal practices. This deliberate synthesis allows them to achieve unparalleled levels of excellence and craftsmanship in their creations, ensuring that each piece radiates with authenticity and distinction.
As custodians of a rich artistic heritage, the Winterburn family remains steadfast in their pursuit of excellence, perpetuating a legacy of craftsmanship that transcends generations. Their unwavering dedication to preserving the artistry of fine bronze casting serves as a testament to their enduring commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation. Find out more about Steve's technique here.
Over the past two decades, Steve has perfected his craft, developing unique techniques and a distinctive style that sets his work apart. Every sculpture, crafted in his family-run foundry, bears the hallmark of his dedication and artistic vision. From applying a handcrafted patina to infusing each piece with organic movement, Steve's artistry shines through, evoking a profound appreciation for the natural world.
Beyond the confines of galleries and exhibitions, Steve's sculptures have found homes in prestigious collections and iconic venues worldwide. His recent unveiling of the legendary Welsh rugby 'codebreakers' statue in Cardiff Bay stands as a testament to his enduring impact and growing acclaim in the art world.
