Pyro-expanded black slate in sculptural art

Abstract

Black slate transformed through a pyroplastic process named pyro-expansion or exfoliation has been explored in the present work in order to be used as sculptural material. Black slate is a highly fissile, fine grained and organic matter rich rock that is the product of the action of low-grade regional metamorphism on black shale (a sedimentary clay and organic matter rich, also fissile and fine grained rock). Black slate if fired at an adequate firing rate up to the temperature range 1000 ºC-1240 ºC shows great potential for the manufacture of sculptural pieces. The technical possibilities of the shaping or conformation of pyro-expanded black slate have also been studied, including the reactions that take place when two different black slate pieces are closely associated with each other, or when black slate pieces are closely associated to other materials, such as metals and ceramics. These interactions, while associating different materials that react with each other, emphasize the unique characteristics of new sculptural compositions increasing the plastic capacities of the pyro-expanded black slate. Some examples of the associations referred to will be shown, which highlight the close functional relationship between art and science; research involves the approach to new techniques and materials, looking at the development of unique plastic configurations.