DOKRA – THE CREATIVE PROCESS
In Part 1 of this article we read about the history of this ancient art of dokra. Part 2 explores the creative process that goes into making the unique artifact…
Part 2 – How Dokra is made
The sculptor first makes a model in the fine clay that is gathered from the local anthill. On the larger pieces, it is not uncommon for the artists to add a second layer of the clay (this one mixed with cow dung) on top of the original layer. Over this clay mold, they then apply a coat of wax. This wax is applied in narrow threads that are squeezed through a bamboo tube or some other syringe like device.
These threads are used to create patterns and embellishments, with the best artists creating the most details. A heated knife may be used to smooth certain sections of the thread. Once the design has been perfected in wax, a thin layer of the clay is applied on top of the wax and allowed to dry. After this another layer of rougher clay (mixed with rice husks) is applied on top of the thin layer.
After this layer dries, multiple holes are made in strategic locations (mostly on the top & bottom of the piece) on the mold to allow for the molten metal to be poured in and for the melting wax to escape. Metal wires are now tied around the whole mold so that it stays intact during the next process.
Molten brass is now slowly poured into the appropriate holes in the mold. As the metal flows into the openings, it melts the wax that is inside the clay mold and replaces it, assuming the shapes, patterns & embellishments that were created in wax. The clay is charred by the heated metal as it spreads through the mold.
The mold is then allowed to cool for at least half a day (usually longer). After it has cooled, the surrounding metal wires are cut off. Then the charred clay is either partially or completely removed from the sculpture.
The sculpture is now polished and chiseled to achieve the appearance that the artist envisioned. The amount of finishing and polish varies significantly from artist to artist and a few of them even use herbal colors to paint parts of their creations.