41st Foundry Spring Iron Pour, U of M

At the Regis Center Foundry, on the University of Minnesota's West Bank Campus, molten iron was sauntered to prepared casts on the fine spring day, April 21, 2010. Not a good idea to scurry unless it is to get out of the way. The pour started at noon and continured to about five. The furnace is inside the Regis Center Foundry, with some casts placed outside in the adjouning courtyard. I felt safer staying in the courtyard.

the business end, where big fire blasted

chucking iron scrap into the melting pot

one end supports, other end controls pour

a few casts were cast open, most were sealed

I do not know the terminolgy or a lot about the process. I do know the pouring of iron makes for some dramatic images. As I was standing about, one of the pour participants mentioned to me the Quarter Gallery on the other side of the building. After 193 images shot in there, I have some samples of the work these iron work artists are about. When edited down, another photo essay.

Meanwhile, I still am chasing another, lighter subject. Puppets to be paraded down a street on MayDay, May 2nd, 2010. At this writting there is still time for you to particiapate. No need to attend a workshop, they are looking for people to parade, but the workshops are so much fun. HOBT.org has requests and details. Also In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre has a facebook page.

Alan Wilfahrt