The horse sculptures pictured are sculpted by starting with a styrofoam form. The foam is carved to the specs measured from a live horse that was used as a model. The form is then cut apart to correct the position and anchored together. Once the form is reattached and the positioning is correct, the framework is welded together to fit inside the form. The foam is cut in half and hollowed out, and the steel framework is put into place. The muscle work is sculpted in the foam, and the entire form is covered with a fiberglass body filler. The hair and fine details are sculpted in liquid putty, and the artifical tail and mane are inserted in place.

The foam sculpture is being positioned before the steel work is installed.

A welded steel support structure had to be constructed for the Galloping horse.

Details of the sculpted foreleg, tendons & knee joints of standing horse.

Horse castings and small scale models. A great deal of of research goes into making sure the posture, proportions and facial expressions are correct.

Final fitting of the bit and bridle before completing the sculpting work. This picture also gives you a great view of the horse's face and sculpted muscles. The wrinkles in the mouth had to be sculpted to hold the bit firmly in place.

Detail profile of head.

Rodeo Bronc coming out of chute.

Deer In Progress

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Frank J. Zitz & Company, Inc.
479 Schultz Hill Road, Rhinebeck, New York 12572
Phone: (845) 876-4896 * Fax: (845) 876-5541
e-mail: zitzf@valstar.net