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summer workshops

Exploring Metal Casting and Collaborative Experimental Preservation

May 25 – Jun 5, 2026

Across New York City

Jorge Otero-Pailos,

Kate Allen,

Richard Pieper

and

Mika Tal

Research Question

Explore metal casting and collaborative craftsmanship through the lens of experimental preservation in this two-week summer workshop. This immersive program blends hands-on experiences with theoretical knowledge and creativity, offering participants a unique approach to the design, technology and craft involved in the production and preservation of architectural metalwork. The workshop will include visits to buildings with significant metalwork and metal manufacturing facilities in the New York area.

Students learn the entire process of designing, prototyping, crafting, restoring and recreating architectural metal elements. The workshop involves a blend of lectures about the material science of ferrous and non-ferrous metals, hands-on production of architectural metal elements at GSAPP, local foundries and metalsmithing workshops, as well as study trips to NY area sites such as the historic zinc mines of Franklin NJ—once the largest in the world.

In the GSAPP Preservation Technology Lab, students learn two ways to replicate existing architectural metal elements: either by taking exact “negative” rubber molds or by interpreting the elements in free-hand sculpted clay copies. They learn how to make multiples of these originals by creating molds with various molding materials including rubber, polyurethane, wax, sand slip-casting and ceramic shell lost-wax methods.

Students work with artisans to learn the craft of melting metal and pouring it into molds. They also visit adaptive reuse projects under construction, and have discussions with metal artists.

more info (pdf)

Methodology and Process

Week 1: Crafting Building Fragments (May 26 – May 29)

In the first week, participants will immerse themselves in the art of metal casting and preservation techniques at the GSAPP Preservation Technology Lab. Guided by experienced artisans and preservation experts, students will learn to create wooden

patterns, molding techniques in rubber and wax to replicate metal building fragments. Through meticulous craftsmanship, each participant will contribute to the creation of these fragments, forming a collaborative process akin to constructing a “"metal quilt.”

Week 2: Exploring Metal Casting and Preservation Sites (June 1 – June 5)

The second week takes participants on a journey to historic sites and industry partners in the New York area, offering firsthand experience in metal casting and preservation practices. We’ll spend a day at Gardenship Foundry in Jersey City, NJ, where participants will have the opportunity to pour molten iron into the molds prepared at Columbia. Participants will gain insight into ferrous metal casting techniques.

Next, a day at UAP Foundry in Newburgh, NY, will provide exposure to the ceramic shell process and lost wax method of casting, exploring nonferrous metal casting methods and expanding participants’ understanding of preservation practices.

To conclude the week, participants will learn the art of applying hot and cold patinas to bronze, adding depth and character to their creations. Here, the collaborative process comes full circle as participants witness the transformation of individual fragments into a cohesive architectural grille.

Output and Findings

Culminating Project: The Metal Quilt

Inspired by the concept of building fragments, participants will collectively fabricate and assemble the architectural grille using the fragments created throughout the workshop. This collaborative endeavor symbolizes the intersection of individual creativity and collective effort in preserving architectural heritage. Upon completion, the grille will be patinated and sent back to Columbia, where it will be hung on display as a tangible representation of the workshop’s collaborative spirit.

This enriching and transformative experience is meant to introduce students to the art, science and technology of metal craftsmanship, heritage conservation, and collaborative experimental preservation practices.

Other 2026 workshops

Transforming & Reinventing NYC Neighborhoods	Kate Dunham	Across New York City	Jun 15 – Jun 26, 2026
One Block, Plural. Situated Readings of Space in New York City	Lucas Coelho Netto	Across New York City	Jun 8 – Jun 19, 2026
Under Pressure: High Tech, Low Tech, No Tech	Lola Ben-Alon	Across New York City	Jun 1 – Jun 15, 2026