Art Caster
びじゅつちゅうぞうか
Industry & Occupation
Classification
Summary
A profession specializing in metal casting of sculptures and art works, handling everything from prototype creation to mold making, metal melting and pouring, and finishing processes.
Description
Art casters specialize in metal casting based on artists' designs or sculpture prototypes, finishing them as completed works. They first create prototypes with clay or wax, form molds with refractory materials, melt metal in a furnace and pour it into the mold, then break the mold after solidification, and perform deburring, polishing, and chemical treatments (patina processing) on the surface. Safety management is crucial due to high temperatures and heavy labor, and knowledge of metal properties and chemical treatments is required.
Future Outlook
Supported by the inheritance of traditional techniques and demand from the contemporary art market, developments in casting methods combining new materials considering environmental regulations and digital technologies are expected.
Personality Traits
Ambitious / Excellent aesthetic sense / Good team player / Patient
Work Style
Art workshop / Freelance / Personal atelier / Workshop affiliation
Career Path
Art casting assistant → Art caster → Freelance (independent) → Gallery contracted artist → Art workshop owner
Required Skills
High-temperature work safety management / Knowledge of metal material properties / Metal cutting and polishing techniques / Metal melting and casting operations / Mold making techniques / Prototype fabrication
Recommended Skills
CAD・3D modeling / Casting simulation / Chemical treatment / Drawing and modeling techniques / Reading English literature
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | Because even tiny bubbles or defects affect the quality of the work. |
| Creativity & Ideation | Because artistic ideas determine the uniqueness of the work. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Because there is a lot of work with heavy prototypes and in high-temperature environments. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Because mathematical analysis is relatively minimal. |
Related Qualifications
- Casting Technician
Related Jobs
- Casting Metal Worker
- Metal Artisan
- Prototype Maker
- Sculptor