foundry invitational
F.I.R.E.
+ river exhibition
MAY 13 – MAY 17
ABOUT THE CONFERENCE
The Metal Museum is pleased to announce the 10th Annual Foundry Invitational and River Exhibition (F.I.R.E.) for foundry and casting artists including foundry workshops, a slide lecture, a pop-up exhibition, and an opportunity to participate in an iron pour.
THE DONNA LILLARD F.I.R.E. SCHOLARSHIP
The Donna Lillard F.I.R.E. Scholarship is a scholarship to cover the general registration fees for regular conference participants. The registration coverage provided by this scholarship will help eliminate financial barriers, making it easier for artists from all backgrounds to attend the F.I.R.E. Conference.
ABOUT THE GUEST ARTIST
This year’s guest artist for F.I.R.E. is Gerry Masse, Founding Director of Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum, will lead a hands-on sand mold carving workshop. With over 32 years of experience making sand molds for iron casting, Gerry will guide participants through core carving, advanced carving techniques, multi-part mold construction, and innovative patternless mold-making methods. This workshop is designed to give artists the tools and confidence to create contemporary works in cast iron, exploring the versatility and expressive power of the sand molding process.
EVENT INFORMATION
Full Event Schedule
Ceramic Shell Info
Pop-Up Exhibit Info
Rules + Regulations
Recommendations (nearby Hotels, Restaurants)
Camping on the Metal Museum grounds is free. Space is limited. First come first serve.
2026 CONFERENCE RATES
Conference Admission sponsored by the Donna Lillard F.I.R.E. Scholarship
CONFERENCE ADMISSION
Includes Conference Admission and $50 materials allowance. 6 places available.
NON-REFUNDABLE MATERIALS DEPOSIT
If you sign up for either workshop, you do not need to pay the non-refundable materials fee.
GREEN SAND WORKSHOP FEE
Includes Conference Admission and $50 materials allowance. 6 places available.
MULTI-PART MOLD WORKSHOP FEE
Includes Conference Admission and $50 materials allowance. 6 places available.
CERAMIC SHELL REGISTRATION
– FREE
– $150
– $250
– $450
– $30
SPECIAL WORKSHOPS
​MATERIAL FEES:
For those that wish to make molds independent of the workshops, resin sand is $0.75/#, green sand is $0.25/# (reclaimed to the Museum), ceramic shell is $7.00/#, "break it yourself" iron is $0.50/# (Iron and coke must be broken by Friday evening), aluminum is $6.00/# and bronze is $8.00/#.
Please submit personal material (Iron and sand) needs using the form below by May 1st.
AVAILABLE SCHOLARSHIPS
There are two types of scholarships available for F.I.R.E. 2026. Please use the buttons below for more information and to apply. Scholarship deadlines are January 16, 2026.
STUDIO ASSISTANTS
Studio assistant positions are available during the conference. Studio assistant applications must be submitted by February 6th, 2026.
POP-UP EXHIBITION
The Metal Museum would like to extend an opportunity for Conference participants to showcase personal work. All attendees are encouraged to submit one art piece for display during the duration of F.I.R.E. The Museum will supply labels for exhibit, and encourages artists to bring business cards, show cards and other supporting materials to display along with artwork. Submissions are due by April 15 at 9AM.
