Midsummer Crown

Iron casting is collaborative by nature producing dynamic energy and enthusiasm of the process for those involved. Mold-making and iron casting is an exceptional medium to invite members of the public to engage with the creative process and develop an understanding of sculptural techniques. Midsummer Crown is an inclusive opportunity for community members of rural Latvia to participate in the conference and cultural exchange while examining community-based practices within the dialogue of contemporary cast iron art. To connect with the theme of the conference, a collaborative cast iron sculpture based on multi-cultural traditions with a specific focus on Latvian midsummer will be created and exhibited at Pedvāle Open-air Art Museum.

Talsi community members are invited to submit drawings based on cultural traditions, Latvian symbolism, and Midsummer ritual. Based on the drawings, twenty community members will be invited to attend a workshop during the conference where they will participate in collaborative carving processes to produce relief sculptures to be cast during the production pour. Post-conference, the relief sculptures will be installed in the shape of a crown around the circumference of a stone.

Sponsored by Talsu novada pašvaldība (Talsi Region Municipality)

Meagan Daus
Led by Meagan Daus, Studio Assistant, U of M, Minneapolis, USA