Sculpture students pour 750 pounds of iron in annual cast-iron tradition

Lamar University sculpture students poured 750 pounds of molten iron in a 90-minute collaborative effort this month, continuing a 45-year tradition of cast iron sculpture that blends fine art, science and hands-on technical training.

The spring iron pour, hosted by the Department of Art & Design in the College of Fine Arts and Communication, brought students together to complete the full casting process, including mold construction, material preparation and furnace coordination. Wright's Scrap & Recycling donated the iron used in the pour, which students will use to create finished sculptural works during the semester. The event concluded with a 100% success rate.

Kurt Dyrhaug, a faculty member in the program, said the work connects students to a long-standing tradition of craft and engineering.

The program, co-led by professors Butch Jack and Kurt Dyrhaug, has established a long-running presence in the international cast iron community. Faculty have presented research and participated in symposia in the United States and abroad.

"At Lamar University, the Department of Art & Design has a distinguished 45-year history of melting and pouring iron," he said. "Sculpture students engage deeply with this ancient yet technically demanding process, learning mold making, material science, and aesthetic decision-making to create unique cast iron sculptures."

Dyrhaug also emphasized the collaborative structure of the experience.

"Each spring semester, sculpture students collaboratively participate in all stages of the iron pour, including mold construction, breaking iron into manageable pieces, and sorting coke," he said. "This hands-on process fosters teamwork, problem-solving, and a strong sense of collective responsibility."

This year's event featured visiting artists Jody Farmer of the University of Dallas, Seph Trask and Cierra Roberts of the University of Oklahoma, and Michael Williams of Nicholls State University, all of whom assisted students throughout the process.

Dr. Bradley of Lamar University's Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering also returned for his tenth consecutive year, providing technical expertise and supporting safety throughout the pour.

"The department is especially grateful for the continued support of the College of Fine Arts and Communication, whose funding makes it possible to host visiting artists who provide lectures, demonstrations, and leadership during the pour," Dyrhaug said.

To learn more about the Department of Art and Design visit, https://www.lamar.edu/fine-arts-communication/art-design/