Atang Tshikare wanted to create a dynamic, winged bronze sculpture that embodied movement, balance, and transformation. His aim was to merge organic, fluid form with architectural precision — a continuation of his long-standing interest in combining traditional symbolism with modern fabrication.

The original concept began as a clay model, but the artist sought to translate it into a monumental bronze work without compromising the sculptural lightness or detail of the wings. Previous attempts using foam and clay collapsed under their own weight, prompting the need for a new technical approach that could achieve both delicacy and strength.

Crayon Artel partnered closely with the artist to re-engineer the piece from concept to cast. We digitized the original clay model through 3D scanning, enabling the design to be refined and structurally optimized.

Using advanced digital modeling, we developed a lightweight internal structure inspired by Voronoi geometry — a pattern chosen not only for its visual beauty but also for its ability to distribute stress efficiently.

This approach dramatically reduced the amount of bronze required while increasing overall stability. Crayon Artel coordinated every production phase, from digital slicing and mold preparation to delivery at the bronze foundry, ensuring a seamless translation between art and technology.

Material: Bronze
Country of Origin: South Africa
Size: 1.5 m tall
Weight: Approx. 85 kg
Technique: 3D scanning, digital modeling, and bronze casting

Crayon Artel’s design team worked directly with Atang to reinterpret the physical clay sculpture into a digital form suitable for casting. Hundreds of iterative exchanges — sketches, renders, and feedback loops — took place across WhatsApp and email, refining every curve and joint of the piece.

We produced digital renders, alignment drawings, and technical slicing maps that determined how each component would be fabricated and assembled. The result was a sculptural file perfectly tuned for foundry production — preserving the artist’s spirit while solving the engineering challenges that had previously stalled the project.

Crayon Artel managed the coordination between digital design and traditional foundry production. Each section of the sculpture was produced, cast, and welded with precision before undergoing patination and finishing.

The final bronze work was transported and installed for Atang’s solo exhibition “Pula e ya na” at Everard Read, Cape Town. Our team oversaw the handling, packaging, and delivery logistics, ensuring the artwork’s safe arrival and flawless presentation on site.

“3D printing has elevated my design process and thinking, and has expanded my creative capacity. I’ve worked in materials ranging from wood, to glass, to bronze, but now I am able to expand on that by using 3D printing as a starting point to bring these all together. It is really fantastic, and the technology is definitely the future.”
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Atang Tshikare