Santa Fe's Artistic Marvel Shidoni Foundry Awaits

Shidoni Foundry in Tesuque, New Mexico, is no longer pouring bronze, but its gallery and sculpture garden remain open for visitors. The foundry officially shuttered its bronze-pouring operations in 2023, so plan your visit around the art still on display rather than live pours.

Discover the Magic of Shidoni Foundry

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a haven for art lovers. Among its many treasures, the Shidoni Foundry stands out for its blend of creativity, craftsmanship, and history.

The Foundry

The heart of Shidoni is its foundry. Here, you can explore the gallery and sculpture garden, though bronze-pouring operations ceased in 2023. It's a rare opportunity to see the legacy of art-making preserved in the spaces where it happened.

Pouring Room: This area was once where molten bronze was poured into molds before operations ceased in 2023. The heat, the glow, and the precision are now part of the foundry's history.
Wax Room: This space once showed how artists created intricate wax models destined to become bronze sculptures. The craft is documented here, even if the casting no longer takes place.
Finishing Area: This area once demonstrated how rough castings were transformed into polished masterpieces through grinding, sanding, and patination. The tools and techniques are part of the story.

The Sculpture Garden

Outside the foundry, the Sculpture Garden awaits. This open-air gallery showcases a variety of sculptures, each telling its own story.

Kinetic Sculptures: These moving pieces respond to wind and touch, adding a dynamic element to the garden.
Abstract Works: Explore thought-provoking abstract sculptures that challenge your perception of form and space.
Figurative Pieces: Admire lifelike sculptures that capture human and animal forms with stunning detail.

The Gallery

Inside the main building, the Gallery offers a curated selection of artworks. From paintings to smaller sculptures, there's something for every art enthusiast.

Local Artists: Discover works by talented local artists, each bringing a unique perspective to their craft.
Mixed Media: Enjoy pieces that combine different materials and techniques, creating visually striking results.
Limited Editions: Find exclusive, limited-edition artworks that make perfect additions to any collection.

The Glass Studio

Shidoni isn't just about bronze. The Glass Studio showcases the beauty of glass art. Here, you can see artists at work and even try your hand at glassblowing.

Glassblowing Demonstrations: Watch skilled artisans shape molten glass into delicate forms.
Fused Glass: Learn about the process of fusing glass pieces together to create colorful, intricate designs.
Glass Sculptures: Admire stunning glass sculptures that play with light and color in fascinating ways.

The Workshops

For those inspired by what they've seen, Shidoni offers workshops. These hands-on experiences let you dive into the world of art and create your own pieces.

Bronze Casting: Workshops once offered the chance to create a small bronze sculpture, guided by experienced artists. Since 2023, these sessions have been discontinued, but other art classes continue.
Glass Art: Participate in a glassblowing or fused glass workshop and take home your creation.
Sculpture Classes: Learn the basics of sculpture, from concept to completion, in a supportive environment.

Santa Fe's Artistic Marvel Shidoni Foundry Awaits

Santa Fe's Shidoni Foundry isn't just a place; it's an experience. This artistic haven offers a unique blend of creativity and craftsmanship. Visitors can explore the stunning sculpture garden, browse the gallery, and purchase one-of-a-kind pieces. The foundry's rich history and commitment to the arts make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and curious travelers alike. For those exploring Santa Fe art and museums in new Mexico, Shidoni remains a key stop, even with its bronze-pouring days behind it. Whether you're an art enthusiast or just looking for something different, Shidoni Foundry provides a memorable and inspiring experience. So, next time you're in Santa Fe, don't miss out on this artistic marvel. It's a place where creativity knows no bounds and every visit sparks a new appreciation for the art of bronze casting—even if the furnaces have cooled. Santa Fe's Shidoni Foundry truly awaits your discovery.