­

Steven Haulenbeek in his work space.

Photo: Tom Gavin

How Steven Haulenbeek Creates Otherworldly Furnishings from Ice

The Chicago artisan developed a novel technique for his one-of-a-kind cast-bronze pieces

One of his ice-cast bronze side tables. Photo: Tom Gavin

Many creatives cite the natural environment as a source of inspiration, but Steven Haulenbeek takes that quite literally, as his highly collectible range of one-of-a-kind cast-bronze furniture and accessories is the direct result of what, in retrospect, seems like a childish experiment: pouring hot wax onto a frozen puddle outside his Chicago studio, creating a version of lost-wax casting he dubbed “ice casting.” 

In the eight years since, his technique has evolved, thanks to a recent investment in what he calls “mega-freezers,” which allow the Michigan native to work year-round creating large blocks of ice that, when carved, act as molds for his ultra-textural, large-scale pieces. “I’ve figured out different ways to pour wax into a cavity to create a vessel or to pour it free form and let it go where it wants,” he says.

Recommended: How Mexican-Born Artist Milena Muzquiz Finds Inspiration at the Border

The latter technique was used to create a large mirror that debuted at Carpenters Workshop Gallery in January; he is currently at work on a series of occasional tables to be introduced later this year.

Ice-Cast Bronze Cocktail Table #1, 2016. Photo: Tom Gavin

ICB Lace Vessel #1, 2018. Photo: Tom Gavin

ICB Vessel Edition #1, 2017. Photo: Tom Gavin

A version of this article first appeared in print in our 2019 Summer issue under the headline Deep Freeze. Subscribe to the magazine.

Cover: Steven Haulenbeek in his work space.

Photo: Tom Gavin

Newsletter

Sign up to receive the best in art, design, and culture from Galerie

Thank You
Your first newsletter will arrive shortly.
This site uses cookies to offer you a better experience. By continuing to browse our site you accept our cookie policy.