“I have always believed that of all the visual arts, Sculpture is the most inclusive and open. Not unlike farmers, we are happy and proud to work in our own studios on our own work but we are ever ready to pitch in and help when needed. ”
Over the next couple of weeks leading up to the 8th Annual Iron Pour, we are introducing the artists involved with this year’s pour.
“I am inspired by my connection as an artist to all artists that have gone before me and all those who will follow. We are part of a great continuum of human history. ”
Meet Carl…
For me sculpture is a special means of communication, a way for me to express some of my thoughts and ideas about the human condition. I usually create abstract sculptures that don’t represent objects, persons or creatures. More likely, the sculptures are about human activities and ideas that have preoccupied our species for millennia. Ideas such as way-finding, discovery of the materials and processes that have enabled us to build modern civilization and how those activities and materials are still in use today. I often reference history, technical processes and I always try to show something about how the sculpture was created. In a casting, for instance, I will often leave mold lines visible so that the viewers can understand that the sculpture was cast. When I carve stone or wood I leave tool marks.
“There’s no place I’d rather be than pouring iron with my Fe Family.”
Meet Kevin…
Kevin Vanek is the Foundry Director and an Assistant Professor of Sculpture at UNC Greensboro. They are an extremely passionate educator, believing in the power of hard work, artistic freedom, and community. All of which can be found on an iron pour floor. Kevin's art practice is driven by their passion for the processes and material of cast iron. They create and exhibit art across the nation.
“We HEART Pour’N.”
Meet The Pour’N Stars…
The Pour'N Stars are a group of highly motivated, passionate, and hard-working students from the UNC Greensboro School of Art sculpture program. Formed out of a love for fire, metal casting, and all things HOT, this group of young/emerging artists are sure to spark a passion in you too. The Pour'N Stars are comprised of current and alumni students who work closely as a team, under the guidance of faculty mentor Kevin Vanek, to create Liquid Metal Art.
About Iron Pour
Every November since 2016, Liberty Arts has hosted a free public arts expereince in Durham Central Park. More than 3,000 attendees are expected to watch teams of artists operate three furnaces that heat thousands of pounds of iron to unfathomable temperatures. Throughout the evening, pour masters, from UNCG, WNCSC and Durham Tech will create iron tiles designed during the scratch block workshops and sculptures made by various NC artists.
Breaking Iron
Are you interested in supporting Liberty Arts, connecting with the community and releasing frustration in a fun way? If so, we are looking for volunteers! There are many ways that your support can contribute to this year’s 8th Annual Iron Pour experience. One exciting way is to join us every Thursday to break down iron, if you are interested, please visit us at Liberty Arts Support.
Admission To Iron Pour
Iron Pour is free and open to the public, though we highly encourage visitors to reserve an e-ticket through Event Brite. There is also plenty of free parking spaces available
8th Annual Iron Pour
Date: Saturday, November 16, 2024
Time: 4:00pm-9:00pm
Location: Durham Central Park
Liberty Arts
Liberty Arts was founded in 2001, as a non-profit corporation dedicated to making art accessible to everyone. Our collective of artists have made some of the most iconic sculptures in Durham, the roster includes Major, the bronze bull who stands proudly at Durham’s Civic Plaza, who was created by Liberty Arts co-founder Mike Waller.
Liberty Arts believes that art practices, creative collaborations, and sustainable partnerships contributes to the overall well-being and fosters strong community connections in Durham and throughout The Triangle.
The Annual Iron Pour is our largest fundraising event, and your contribution allows us to provide year-round art education programming and exciting and free community events.