Page 3
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11
Introduction
Infants
LifeMask™ 1 2
FastMask™ 1 2
Non-Human
Arts & Crafts
Large Work 1 2
Miscellany

Chapter 5: Advanced Techniques
Precision Lifecasting & Other Approaches

The LifeMask™:
The LifeMask™ is perhaps the most interesting, and challenging, subject for a LifeCast™ artist. In the past of course, 'death mask' was the more common term. This was because either the model was actually dead or because the techniques were too slow and awkward for any model to maintain much of an expression.
This is also true of the first two techniques of portraiture described here. Our mediums however, do make even these methods safer and more comfortable for the model.
The degree of detail now achievable is unsurpassed.
The last technique is suited for true a LifeMask™, capturing literally any living expression. The FastMask™ is a radical departure from previous approaches. Only the incredible characteristics of Earthium(f/x)™ make it possible.
There is another technique for partial portraits, suitable for beginners described in our Customer Projects section.

The Shelled LifeMask™
The shelled LifeMask™ is very similar to traditional techniques, with the minor variation of our mold compounds between the skin and the plaster. (In the past the plaster was actually placed directly against the skin after liberal greasing with lubricant!)
It can be done with either the single part ArtForm™ or the 2-part Earthium(f/x)™. It can even be done with the materials in one of our Original LifeCast™ kits.
1.) The model, in a swimming cap, lays flat and the face is moistened. A high viscosity ratio (see LifeCast™ Basics) of water and powder* is prepared and quickly spread all over the skin. It tends to run down the sides but is scooped back up until it begins to hold its own shape. The nostrils are left uncovered to facilitate breathing.
2.) The mold will be 'tacky' at this stage. The sculptor daps cotton balls over the surface so that some fibers become embedded.
3.) Once the mold is completely set, a thin coating (1/8" to 1/4") of high viscosity ArtCast™ or plaster is spread over the surface. You must be careful to keep it on the mold, not the skin and, of course to leave the nostrils unobstructed. It is best to apply the plaster just a few moments before it sets.
AA life cast face 14.) When this shell has hardened the model will sit up and wiggle the facial muscles while exhaling to release the suction. The cotton fibers have bound the mold to the shell so they both come off at the same time.
The casting should be done immediately. The main drawback to this approach, other than the fact that it takes 10 to 15 minutes to do is the weight of the assembly. It tends to press the skin down unnaturally and, especially on older models, will cause it to gather in noticeable folds back around the ears.
*If using ArtForm™ the water should be very cold to extend working time (see LifeCast™ Basics). If using Earthium(f/x)™ a low Part B ratio would be used for the same reason (see product instructions).
Go here to open a window of some additional examples of famous personalities who have been immortalized by this and other techniques.
Copyright © 1987 through 2003 by MSWinn. Thank you for visiting www.lifecast.net!
ToP
1/18/03

LifeCast™ & MSW Creative Works Legal Information:

Contents of this web site (lifecast.net) and all life cast materials and other art and sculpture products or lifecast kit packaging, art techniques and sculpture instructions copyright © 1986-2002 by Mark S. Winn. All rights reserved. The terms BODY PARTS™, LifeCast™, ChildCast™, StudioPack™, ArtForm™, ArtCast™, Earthium™, Earthium(f/x)™, ShrinKast™, PolyART™, WaterTrap™, BlendBag™, Successful Creativity Guarantee™, LifeMask™, FastMask™ as well as the phrase "Make YourSelf Immortal!™" and any other art materials product or craft item denoted by a small 'TM' (such as in LifeCast™) are trademarks. The phrases life cast and life casting or the words lifecast and lifecasting are generic.
Our LifeCast™ products or other sculpture, mold making and art materials products are are entirely safe within the context of arts & crafts when used as directed. Other arts & crafts materials shown here each carry their own warnings and degrees of safety. They are available for use as creative mediums AT YOUR OWN RISK and since we cannot control the actual use of these art products, we disclaim any responsibility for damage or injury caused by incorrect or experimental life cast, sculpture, life mask, erotic art or other mold making or creative applications.
NOT FOR USE BY CHILDREN: These arts & crafts materials may be used with children of any age but should never be used by an unsupervised child. A "child" is defined by law as anyone under the age of 18 years. Our art, lifecast or sculpture product prohibitions against unsupervised use by children therefore applies to all persons under that age. "Supervised" by definition means at all times, through each step of any use of our life cast or other art materials. Such supervision must be by an adult over the age of 18 years while using the BODY PARTS™ LifeCast™ kits or other life cast, sculpture and art materials.
Our life cast, sculpture and other art materials should never be used by anyone who cannot read, understand and apply the language in which the lifecast, sculpture or art materials' instructions appear. The terms of said language are exclusively defined in any standard, widely accepted and comprehensive dictionary of that language and are meant to be construed in no other manner.
Purchase and/or use of our life cast, sculpture or other art materials implies your understanding and acceptance of these reasonable terms. If you do not agree, for any reason, please do not purchase or use our lifecast, sculpture, mold making or other arts & crafts products.
The information contained in this document is given in good faith based on our current knowledge. It is only an indication and is in no way binding, particularly as regards infringement d or prejudice to third party rights through the use of our products. MSW GUARANTEES THAT ITS PRODUCTS COMPLY WITH ITS SALES SPECIFICATIONS. This information must on no account be used as a substitute for necessary prior tests which alone can ensure that a product is suitable for a given use. Users are responsible for ensuing compliance with local legislations and for obtaining the necessary certifications and authorizations. Users are requested to check that they are in possession of the latest version of this document.
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