About

The Sculpture Project is an initiative founded on curiosity about the relationship between art and traditionally crafted products, as well as a love of new cultural trends. This project will lead to the casting of unique artworks by some of the most fascinating creative individuals in Scandinavia. The artwork will be manufactured in limited editions by experienced craftsmen at Byarums Bruk in Småland.
/ Joel & Kenneth, project founders

“Ever since 1947 we have stuck to the same principle: only to use recycled aluminium in our products and to make the moulds from a mix of natural sand from lake Vättern, clay, soot and water. This is a mix that is entirely free from chemical additives and forms a closed system so it can be used over and over again,” explains the manifesto of Byarums Bruk. Also worth mentioning: “And for the last decade we have worked closely with some of the top designers and artists in Sweden.”

Sand casting is the common factor in everything that Byarums Bruk produces. It is a technique that requires the finest craftsmanship. The casting works is thus preserving an old craft tradition and using it to create objects for the present day and for our future. This is not the only benefit. Production is environmentally sound, since every stage builds on the principle of reuse and recycling. The raw material is, as mentioned, recycled aluminium. The casting sand is used over and over again for new moulds. Some of the grains of sand undoubtedly date back to 1947, when the sand depot was filled for the first time. The finished objects are highly durable and remain just as beautiful year after year, decade after decade. Byarums Bruk is one of a few companies that live up to the concept of sustainable design.

The technique requires a sharp mind, extreme care and skillful hands. Just as an experienced baker tests the dough with fingertips to check if it has risen fully, the casting workers rub the sand between their fingers to check whether the moisture content is right, depending on what they plan to cast and the prevailing weather. Production at Byarums Bruk is in other words reliant on a level of craftsmanship that is becoming increasingly prized today. Deep experience – developed through years of practice and often passed from generation to generation – is essential to achieve quality in production based on craft skills.

“Making quality products with an environmentally friendly production makes me and my staff very happy and proud.” comments Joel Enhörning, owner of the casting works. “We are lucky to still be able to practice this wonderful craft and supply these unique products to our customers. It also feels right to keep on manufacturing in Byarum in Småland.”