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The Limestone
I would first like to explain my medium to everyone.
As I stated on my Home page, I worked almost 20 years
in the paper industry and that is where I was introduced
to this great "stuff". This limestone-based
medium was first designed and patented by the paper industry
as a filler in the paper-making process. This formula
contains not only limestone but other calcium carbonates,
bonding agents and fillers. When left undiluted the limestone
will harden in seconds and is quite durable.
The Process
Phase one of my process starts with actually forming each
tile. The limestone mixture is quickly folded and mixed
to the desired consistency then poured into a square form.
Time is of the essence as this will set in about 20-30
seconds. Very durable and surprisingly light the hardened
limestone also possesses great archival properties as
well.
Once the tiles are dry, phase two starts with the removal
of the tiles. I will then hand carve, sculpt, grind, and
scratch into the tops of each tile to create the design.
My favorite tools used to carve are nails, Dremel©
tools, grinders, dental tools, razor blades, sand paper
and anything else that can scratch or gouge. Most of carving
tools I use are hand made and very crude. "I've got
that nail bent just the way I like it!" That's how
I taught myself, so that's what I keep using. Any tiles
that are curved or rounded must be "ground"
to shape and fit together like a puzzle.
Every tile I make is a one of a kind. I do not cast through
molds!
Phase three is the painting and glazing. All tiles are
hand painted with brushes (not airbrushed) using high
quality acrylic paints. In truth the tiles are as much
stained as they are painted. The limestone is porous and
you only get one shot at painting correctly. I will then
treat each tile with an iridescent wash that allows the
piece to reflect more light; creating greater movement
and texture. Direct lighting on my pieces is very much
encouraged.
My final step is to mount and frame each sculpture. I've
always used very high quality matting and framing as I
feel that it is half of the piece as well as an art form
unto itself. Please take a peek at the Customize
page for some of the mats I am currently using. I generally
"pedestal" mount each tile to give the pieces
further depth and shadow. UV glass is used on my larger
pieces and can be used on smaller pieces upon request.
All pieces are sold ready-to- hang with wire, pads, etc.
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Scot Schmidt
1112 Elmwood Avenue
Oshkosh, WI 54901
ph: 920.279.8551 (cell)
email
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