Ice sculptors use chainsaws and special chisels to sculpt works of art from large blocks of ice. These clear ice blocks are created with special machines that eliminate cloudiness. Ice sculptures are used for entertaining, as decorative statues and functional display pieces.
Tools and Techniques
The most common hand tools for carving ice are saws, chisels, tongs, and chippers. Large, intricate ice sculptures are often made by machines and molds.
- To sculpt ice, start with a block larger than your desired sculpture.
- Mark outlines with chisels.
- Use chainsaws and other power tools to remove big sections.
- Then use smaller hand tools to refine details.
- Works in progress can be kept in freezers.
Conditions and Requirements
The time to sculpt high-quality ice art can vary, typically spanning from three hours to twelve hours. The ideal temperature for ice carving is 28° F or less. Natural ice from ponds or rivers is preferred, as flowing water can prevent ice from reaching an adequate thickness for carving. Industrial ice makers enable sculptors to create custom orders in advance.
History and Safety
Ice sculpting has a long tradition, dating back thousands of years. The trend of using ice art for entertainment has increased more recently. Mastering this art form takes practice and can result in magnificent frozen works of art. When using power tools, such as chainsaws, safety gear, proper technique, and caution are imperative to ensure sculptor safety.