Why Go to Sloss?

I asked my self the same question years back when I first went. What could possibly be so important about this place and event? I could never get a real answer from anyone just simply, "Trust me, you got to go." Iron pouring is iron pouring right? I mean how different can it be from one place to another? Boy, did I have a lot to learn.

First of all Sloss Furnaces is a National Historic Landmark, one that, not only preserves structures and buildings of the most magnificent, but also because it reminds us of the not so distant past when some men, because of the color of their skin, were considered disposable in the name of business. People died in this place and it is a sobering reminder of all that we have to lose and one reason why I go back year after year. But besides all the historical functions of this place, there is a creative endeavor that goes on day after day with the resident artists that ply their trade and teach others the skills we need to be creative. Then once every two years a whole huge bunch of artists convene for a national conference of the most unusual agenda; get dirty, pour iron, make art, and drink beer, not necessarily in that order. This 'agenda' happens for days as schools, artist collaboratives, and individuals, deliver cupolas from around the nation to partake in a multi-day long celebration of fire and elements. There are lectures and talks about every thing from how to put together a portfolio, to how not to incinerate your self while poring iron. I learned about 3D imaging for sculptors, different ways of making molds, and how to make a cupola out of a trash can and a vacuum cleaner motor.

Some of the best people come to this place to share what they know, people who over the years have turned out to be best friends and supporters. This year Deborah LaGrasse will be the key note speaker, a truly talented artist and a wonderful human being as well, who I met a an iron pour years ago, go figure.

There are several interesting workshops; large mold making, wax working, ceramic shell mold making. All of these happen earlier in the week before the main event opens on April 1st. There are a half a dozen different and individual iron pours every day for 4 four days, there are talks and lectures during the day and performances at night along with lots of eating and drinking (at your own expense of course). Hotels are available for old folks like me, and rough camping for anyone who can stand it (don't plan on sleeping much). And in between all of the activities, day and night, is the exploring. Sloss has numerous amazing structures, buildings, tunnels and other guests (the ghosts of those who died here) to keep you occupied for hours. I've been here many times and I still am climbing on stuff.

So check out the conference web site and send in your reservation before it's too late! You will be so happy you did, and you can come home with some new castings as well.