HEIDI WASTWEET’S MEDALLIC ART

Editor Wayne Homren earns our thanks for publishing notice of the web site of medallist-sculptor Heidi Wastweet in last week’s E-Sylum.

Heidi is at the top of her profession, the equal of a Laura Gardin Fraser, and approaching that of Malvina Hoffman. Laura Fraser is well known to collectors for her coins, Malvina Hoffman is known for her full size sculpture in-the-round figures of all the types of human forms, 105 of these are in Chicago’s Field Museum. Malvina also created medals. Heidi has created hundreds of medallic items but also creates sculptures.

Medallists, it seems, can produce sculpture in-the-round, but not all sculptors can create the bas-relief models required for medallic items -- coins and medals. Heidi has mastered this glyptic art in addition to her talents as a sculptor. Her art medals, both commissioned items and studio productions are superbly designed and executed.

Private mints as well as the U.S. Mint have recognized her talent in creating coin relief models which must meet the exacting requirements of the coining press. But it is her art medals, unfettered by these restrictions, where her artistic muse reigns free. The result is miniature art objects, a pleasure to hold for their tactile quality and delight to view.

Heidi has taught dozens of students, sharing her knowledge of medallic techniques. She is also active outside her studio. She is president of the American Medallic Sculpture Association and is in her second four-year term as a member of the U.S. Treasury’s Citizens Coinage Advisory Committee. She champions the field of medallic art in many ways, in many avenues.

Collectors, if you are considering a new specialty in the numismatic field to persue, you would do well to consider art medals. Start with one of Heidi Wastweet’s creations. She has a variety of subjects and images to choose from, undoubtedly one to please. No need to put this in a safe deposit box, this is art to view, to venerate. You will pick it up often, even to show to friends. It’s a new art form, appreciated by all for its allure and charm. Art medals are highly collectible.

In addition to their artistic design you will discover art medals inherent rarity. Many are issued in editions, some as few as 10 pieces, others 15 or 20. But even 50 is a rarity compared to the large quantities of coins minted. Learn to appreciate this unique art, especially each medal’s patina – the coloring of the metal surface. Heidi prepares most of the patinas in her own studio. There is a lot of hand work for art medals in addition to their original modeling.

But be forewarned. After you own one you will want more, you will cherish it so much – and that’s the satisfaction of a collection.

To read the earlier E-Sylum article, see:
FEATURED WEB SITE: HEIDI WASTWEET (http://www.coinbooks.org/v21/esylum_v21n03a31.html)

To visit Heidi Wastweet's web site, see:
http://www.wastweetstudio.com/

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