It takes about Ten Minutes to Create a Face Casting, and around 25 minutes to cast a double body. All of the initial castings are made in plaster gauze bandage. From this impression complete detail is achieved, smile lines, eye lashes and dimples are all captured in the initial casting. Ann uses this as the mold by which any of the finished works in clay are achieved. By pressing a clay slab into the initial cast, all of the detail within it transfers to the exterior of the clay piece.

Ann uses her innate abilities as an artist to finish the order. Should the customer desire Ann uses photographs of the subject are utilized to create the effect of open eyes. She can sculpt around the face, creating Spirit Masks that incorporate the personal imagery her clients desire. A bear or dragon, an eagle or wolf are but a few of the selections available.

A flowing garland is achieved by the addition of flora to the art work. A spray of roses, climbing trumpet vine, a wreath of columbine or fall leaves all create added pleasure to the work.

The Actual Casting Begins with a light coat of vaseline to protect the eyebrows and eyelashes, mustache or beard. Medical grade plaster gauze bandage is dipped into warm water to make it creamy. In four quick steps the first layer is completed. A small piece of the plaster gauze is placed between the nostrils and the second layer is immediately begun. When the last piece is applied, two minutes remain. For a face casting the whole process takes ten minutes or less.

 

At No Time Are the Nostrils Closed,

AND Nothing Impedes Breathing!

 

To create the more elaborate work of the Frontal Bust or one of the Body Castings more plaster gauze bandage is used, thereby increasing the casting time up to as much as 25 minutes to create the stunning Double Body Casting.

For Most of the Body Castings a total time of between 15 and 20 minutes is required.

If the face is to be included in this casting, it is the final step, thus taking only 10 minutes more to complete and remove the entire casting from the form.

The Freshest Plaster Gauze Bandage insures that the detail on the casting is as accurate as any castings made.

Ann Lyneah Curtis,

Masquerade Life Casting

and the “Ultimate Portrait” ™.