The art of coppersmithing, born in the 14th century in Dinant, Belgium, uses malleability to shape sheet metal and incorporate it into everyday household objects such as furniture and tableware. A source of infinite creativity, we will see that this technique can have applications in a wide variety of metal design and construction sectors.

During this training, Ulysse Lacoste, a coppersmith, will guide you through the geometric approach to shapes and introduce you to the transformation of copper and brass.

At the end of the training, the trainee will be able to:

• Use traditional coppersmithing techniques
• Reproduce essential movements to transform a sheet of metal into volume
• Understand finishing and patination techniques
• Hammer to decorate sheet metal

Day 1

• Ulysse Lacoste presentation. Participant introductions. Discussion of objectives. Presentation of the workshop and its tools. Focus on safety.
• Brief history of the technique. Drawing and tracing. Cutting and shaping: first steps.

Day 2

• Constraint technique: the different processes. Shaping the hemisphere.
• Elongation techniques: the different processes. Shaping an anti-classical shape. Time for discussion, group follow-up.

Day 3

• Continuous application of the processes presented the day before. Time for discussion, individual follow-up.
• Introduction to the English wheel. Continuation of the project. Discussion time, group follow-up.

Day 4

• Introduction to copper metal coloring techniques.
• Introduction to TIG or oxyacetylene welding on copper metals. Presentation of the possibilities offered by this technique. Personalized individual follow-up, assessment.

Day 5

• Demonstration of pattern making on a volume model. Finalization of projects.
• Group feedback on the training. Workshop clean-up.

Ulysse Lacoste

Steeped in science, Ulysse explores the themes of balance, gravitation, and movement.

For almost 20 years, he has been developing a unique expertise in metalworking, combining ancestral know-how with contemporary and industrial techniques.

The result is simple forms born from geometric interplay, mobiles whose point of balance is constantly lost and regained, and tension-based stabiles where all forces cancel each other out... For a sculpture of interaction, accessible and vibrant.

Today, he collaborates with several science and technology museums (Musée des Arts et Métiers, Palais de la Découverte, IHP, Exploradôme, etc.), creates apparatus and scenography for the circus world, exhibits monumental sculptures, and performs in public spaces.

Sensitive to the nuances of their environment, Ulysses' sculptures seek synthesis, are interested in abstraction, and speak of simplicity.

• Classroom, multipurpose room, workshops with professional equipment
• Materials provided
• Individual and collaborative work
• Workshop work
• Active participation and experimentation of participants is encouraged

• Collective and personalized monitoring of work, regular updates
• Self-assessment of technical skills
• Collective feedback
• Half-day attendance sheet
• Certification of completion issued by Campus MaNa