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The Valley Arts Alliance has arranged for a team of sculptors and commercial foundrymen to set up a small version of a traditional coke fueled cupola furnace on the grounds of the Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry in Wasilla, on Saturday, June 28, 2008.  The team will demonstrate the process of an “iron pour” as they create unique, commemorative cast iron sculptures.   

This project first got started following a chance meeting of sculptor Pat Garley, who owns Arctic Fires Bronze in Palmer, Alaska, and Donnie Keen of Keen Foundry in Houston, Texas, who were both participating in an academic iron pour event at New Mexico Highlands University. Eventually sculptor Wendy Croskrey of the University of Alaska, Fairbanks, and Meredith Jack of Lamar University, Beaumont, Texas, who have been casting iron in academic venues for a number of years, joined the team. 

The team's original objective is to conduct an iron pour at the Arctic Circle on the Summer Solstice, a truly appropriate day for such an event. The team members will demonstrate that any competent person can build and operate an iron casting facility, anywhere.  On their return from the Arctic Circle, the team will set up again in Wasilla.

On the day of the iron pour, the Valley Arts Alliance has also arranged demonstrations of black smithing, pottery making, Raku fired clay, and more.  In addition, an art show will be held in the newly restored barn at the Museum of Transportation and Industry.  Paintings, prints, and photographs adhering to the theme “Barn & Beyond” will be on display.  Live music will also be provided during these events.  We hope to turn this day into an extraordinary Iron Pour Art Fest in the Valley!

These events will be held on Saturday, June 28, 2008, from 10am until 5pm.  The ticket price is $5, with children under 12 admitted free.  The Museum of Alaska Transportation and Industry is located at 3800 W. Museum Drive (near the airport), in Wasilla.  For more information, please email “carmen (at) valleyartsalliance (dot) com”.