Separated a short distance from the process by a thin rope, observers can note the readout on the giant probe thrust into the molten bronze stewpot - it's 2,100 degrees. With a slight nod of the head to drop the visor over his face, the pour leader signals his assistants to action. With the use of large-scale machinery, the molds of the artwork to be cast are lowered into place. The glowing golden metal flows like cake batter. Although the pouring demonstrations occur only on Saturdays, the foundry is open daily during the lunch hour.
Visitors can wander through the work areas while the artists take a lunch break.
The gallery and sculpture gardens are open all day. Shidoni is one of the largest art foundries in the United States and is known for quality workmanship and technology. Sculptors appreciate the detail, precision and skill of the staff members, many of whom are artists themselves. Vats of pale green silicon, resembling creamy frosting, give a sci-fi ambience to the shell room. Molds of sculpted body parts and forms hang from the ceiling on giant hooks.