Starlite FAQ
What are Starlite’s sculptures made of?
All Starlite Originals sculptures begin from an original made of plasticine, the result of an artists’ sculpting and re-sculpting soft clay. From these originals, first-generation models are created. Each sculpture is sectioned into a myriad of component parts and placed into molds for the creation of individual cavities. Starlite’s sculptures are made from one or any combination of different materials. Such materials can be categorized by bronze, pewter, Lucite, acrylic, porcelain, resin and wood.
Exactly What is Mixed Media?
It is a combination of various fine metals such as lost wax bronze, fine pewter, brass, copper, 24 karat gold vermeil and various hot torched acid patinas such as black nickel, rose copper, and turquoise, to highlight the sculpture. In addition, the sculpture may contain embellishments such as Lucite.
How Are The Sculptures Made?
The original sculpture is delivered to the foundry by the artist in the form of plasticine. Working models are created from the originals by Starlite master mold makers. In the old world tradition, the master mold is then created. Once the mold is complete, molten metal is poured into the cavities in the mold and left to cool to room temperature. Each part is then removed from the mold, cleaned, assembled, and hand tooled until it looks exactly as the artist created it. The sculpture then goes through numerous metal plating and patina application steps, completing the Mixed Media process. Watch our video to see the step by step process of how our pieces are made.
What is a Patina? Is it Paint?
Patina is definitely not paint. A patina is created by the application of certain chemicals which oxidize the metal during the hot-torching process. The combination of heat and acid etch into the metal, producing a rainbow of color finishes. The color produced by the patina becomes one with the metal.
What Is Lucite?
An optically clear, hand-crafted material that has the ability to be formed into any desired shape. Several magnificent finishes-from crystal clear when polished, to a milky-white opaque when frosted can be achieved. It has the desirable characteristics of transparency and crystal clarity. Lucite is also UV resistant.
What is a Certified Limited Edition and what is the advantage to registering my sculpture?
Each person who purchases a Starlite Studio sculpture is invited to register their sculpture with the Starlite Society. The Society provides the highest level of support in addition to valuable, complimentary privileges. Upon purchase a certificate request card will need to be filled out and upon receiving this card The Starlite Society will send the collector a personalized certificate of ownership. The customer shall continue to receive important updates and the latest information throughout the year. All registered sculptures are kept in a database for safekeeping of value for insurance and appraisal purposes.