BAMS Bronze Cast Medal

"The past of Wales, carved in stone. The rest to be written, the future unknown."

 

This medal was inspired by the rich heritage and culture of Wales and Welsh industrial materials. The material of Welsh coal and the Welsh mountains inspired the shape and diamond pattern on the edge, which is drawn from the molecular structure of carbon. In contrast to the rough outer edge, the smooth walnut frames a piece of Welsh slate, engraved with the title and message of the medal. Wales is full of past culture and stories, which like the text, is carved in stone; and cannot be changed. As for the future, Wales is a forever changing place with new opportunities and the prospect with areas like Cardiff bay and further regenerations of the past industrial docks.

 

I wanted my medal to interact and influence the user in some way and the user influence the medal, as well as exploring the ideas of change and progression. The movement and turning of the medal aims to speak of time and maybe of which way the user turns the medal, is whether they would like to retain the old Wales or look forward to the new and future Wales.

 

The shape of the medal was designed using 3D computer software and then 3D printed to create a subject for a mould. The slate was cut and engraved with a laser cutter as well as the wooden frame and all finished by hand. I like the use of modern technology and processes to create a form as well as combining the old traditional process of bronze casting; I feel this reflects a similar theme in my medal design.