From the 13th to the 15th of November, 7 of us art students embarked on an enriching art trip after a 6 hour drive, to the village of Devrai to explore the lost wax technique. The idea behind this trip was not simply to the art that the locals had made, but to deepen our understanding of different art techniques, broaden our horizons and find inspiration for the future. 

Our day began where we explored the natural studio and shop in which many pieces of art were placed. Seeing the texture, the brushwork, the details, we were blown away. As we moved through the different, one of a kind, pieces, conversations sparked, as each person interpreted the same artwork in countless ways. 

Coming back to the lost wax technique, I can confirm that it is as ancient as it sounds. First, we had to make our sculptures out of a black charcoal wax. However, in ancient times, the wax was sculpted on a found rock, which is exactly what we did. We sat by the fire to keep the wax warm as we molded it into various shapes and experimental textures. It was delicate work, as too much pressure could ruin the piece, while too little could leave the piece undistinguished. To do this, we needed patience, intention, and creative senses, as we molded the wax into our chosen forms. 

After many hours, we were all finally done. Each person used different techniques, as we could see the distinguished styles in the final pieces, whether it be a dragon, a flower, a skull, or even bugs. As we admired our pieces, Ms. Mandakani Mathur, the founder of Devrai, informed us about the process after the wax would be set: a mold would be made out of natural materials, completely covering the sculpture. Once dried, hot, molten bronze would be poured into the mold, taking the place of the wax which would flow out of the other side. 

Understanding this concept gave us a deeper understanding and appreciation of the precision and work behind each and every unique sculpture: a piece that could not be replicated. We walked away from Devrai with a new, unlocked artistic skill that we may have never been exposed to. 

“Art,” was not the only thing we did on this trip, no. We danced, we sang, we bought fresh strawberries, and told scary stories as we roasted marshmallows on the bonfire. 

We drove back to Mumbai city with our hands messier, our sketches more elaborative, and our mind fuller and buzzing with ideas. This trip was more than just a school outing; it helped remind us why we create, and renewed our sense of imagination, which will shape every art piece we make next.