Large Scale Event Sculpture

Above: A 5′ tall replica of the Lincoln Memorial sculpted for Opryland Hotel is the perfect example of Keith Tucker’s large-scale event sculpture.

Keith Tucker creates sculptures on a large scale. Most of his pieces are created for corporate events and the theater. Tucker glues together large blocks of 2 lb weight polystyrene. Tucker says it’s quite dense and retains detail well.

“I first do a number of drawings from all angles for the piece that will be sculpted. I always work through subtractive sculpting—starting with blocks and removing the material,” says Tucker. “It’s far less forgiving and if you make a mistake you’re usually stuck with it, or you have to alter the piece accordingly. But, I enjoy the challenge of that approach versus building up material. And, due to the cost and time constraints, it works great.”

Tucker uses WEST SYSTEM® 105 Resin with 206 Slow Hardener, adding 406 Colloidal Silica for the foam coating. He applies several coats, and after the epoxy has cured, he sands down the pieces and applies a paint finish. Tucker says he is now starting to incorporate fiberglass into his pieces as well. See more of Keith Tucker’s work at www.keithtuckerart.com.