The Tale of Susie, Dorchester's Feline Celebrity
The world of art is buzzing with anticipation as sculptor Ama Menec offers a sneak peek into her latest masterpiece. But this isn't just any ordinary sculpture; it's a tribute to a local celebrity—a cat named Susie. Yes, you heard that right!
In the charming town of Dorchester, Susie has become a household name, and her adventures have captivated the hearts of over 13,000 Facebook followers. Imagine a cat with such a fan base! Personally, I find it intriguing how a furry friend can unite a community and inspire an artist to immortalize her in bronze.
A Sculptor's Journey
Ama Menec, a Weymouth-based artist, has taken on the challenge of capturing Susie's essence in a statue. What makes this project even more remarkable is the prestigious Pangolin foundry, a favorite among renowned artists like Damien Hirst, where the statue is being cast. This is a significant detail, as it elevates the status of Susie's story and Menec's craftsmanship.
The casting process, a delicate and time-consuming art, began in July and is expected to take around four months. I can't help but admire the dedication and patience required for such an endeavor. The original sculpture, crafted in plastolin, presented its own challenges, as Menec describes it as 'quite hard to work with.' This behind-the-scenes insight adds a layer of complexity to the creative process.
From Wax to Bronze
The foundry's transformation of the plastolin cat into a green wax version is a fascinating step. It's like witnessing a rebirth, where the initial concept gains new life. The subsequent steps, involving liquid clay and kiln firing, showcase the intricate techniques employed in sculpture. The fact that the final sculpture will be hollow, akin to a Lindt bunny, is an interesting choice, perhaps adding a playful element to the piece.
Menec's attention to detail is evident in her explanation of the texturing process, where stamps and chisels come into play. This level of craftsmanship ensures that the bronze statue will be a faithful representation of Susie, down to her stripes and smooth coat.
The Patination Process
As the statue nears completion, the patination process emerges as a significant challenge. The summer heat and the intense conditions within the foundry shed create a demanding environment for the artists. This part of the process is where the statue truly comes to life, as the bronze is treated with metal salts and a gas gun to achieve the desired color and finish. Menec's excitement about this stage is palpable, and it highlights the intricate nature of her craft.
Susie's Story
But who is this famous cat, you might ask? Susie's adventures began when she moved to Dorchester with her owners, Linda and Michael Crow. Her penchant for exploration led to numerous calls from concerned citizens, prompting the Crows to update her name tag to 'Susie - not lost, just adventurous.' This simple yet effective solution is a testament to the power of communication and understanding within a community.
Susie's fame has grown to the point where she has her own Facebook page, children's book, and merchandise, all contributing to charitable causes. This is where art and community intersect, as the statue will not only honor Susie but also serve as a symbol of the town's spirit and generosity.
A Community Landmark
The final product, standing at 38cm tall on a 75cm plinth, will be installed outside a charity shop, at the perfect height for children to admire. This detail is significant, as it invites the younger generation to engage with art and appreciate the story behind it.
In my opinion, this project is more than just a statue; it's a celebration of local culture, a tribute to an unconventional celebrity, and a testament to the power of storytelling through art. It invites us to reflect on the unique characters and stories that shape our communities and the artists who bring them to life.
So, as we eagerly await the unveiling of Susie's statue, let's appreciate the creative journey and the impact it will have on the people of Dorchester and beyond.
