honor your body through art, ritual, & reclamation
The Process At a Glance
Alginate, a gooey paste made from seaweed extract, is used to make a detailed replica of the body.
Plaster bandage is applied on top of the alginate to provide structure.
The replica casting is used to create a plaster sculpture - the process of finalizing a piece usually takes 4-6 weeks.
Anchor the final piece as part of your self love daily rituals.
Cast your body as sculpture and declare:
"This body deserves to be seen. This body deserves to be honored. This body holds story, power, and beauty beyond measure."
about the artist: Michelle Namer
Of all the journeys I've been on, the one back home to myself is the most treasured.
This sculptural art is my way of sharing the gift of body reclamation and radical self love.
It is my goal to create a safe, nurturing, consensual space for this work from start to finish.
This sculptural work is a great antidote to perfectionism: the rough edges and imperfections are interesting and beautiful parts of a final piece.
Knowing your body is a work of art is a delightful and powerful way to resist, and it's a pleasure to be of service to the resistance!
Frequently asked questions
What’s the whole process?
You'll come to my home studio, I’ll invite you to have a snack and acclimate to where we’ll be casting. We’ll transition to the studio and I’ll give you a moment to change into the level of clothes you’re comfortable with and get in position. You’ll choose a final position you can hold for about 15 minutes. I’ll mix up alginate with a hand mixer and use a gloved hand to apply the alginate to the body part you’re molding. I’ll then apply plaster bandage over the alginate. You’ll still be hanging out in the same position. Once everything is set, I will remove the mold and give you some time to clean up and get dressed. Then we will chat about consent for using photos of your piece, how you’d like to receive the finished product, and finishing options for your piece. Then you’ll head home and I’ll start the process of turning your mold into a finished piece of plaster art!
What's this alginate stuff?
It's a white powder derived from seaweed that I'll add water to create a gooey paste (think 90's gak or oobleck). It's a substance used for making dental molds, so widely considered safe enough to be in your mouth. Alginate sets more slowly when it is cold to the touch, so I warn my models to brace themselves for the cold many times before it comes.
What about hair?
Your hair is perfect! I will provide you with Vaseline to apply anywhere alginate may contact and could pull hairs. You might sacrifice a hair or two, but I do all I can to be gentle and leave all your hairs where they are.
How will I get my final piece?
Either pick up, delivery, or shipping. We will discuss these options in more detail on a sculpture by sculpture basis.
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely! I have room for 1 other person in my home studio, so please bring someone along. I also provide opportunities for couples casting sessions that are a lot of fun; in addition to your own casting, you'll get a hands of experience of supporting the process for your partner, lover, or best friend.
How will I display my final piece?
I add a D-ring and/or hanging wire to finished pieces for wall mounting. Many pieces are also able to be balanced on a shelf or an altar.
How do I book an appointment?
Sign up to stay in touch and be the first to know when casting appointments are available. The Winter/Spring booking calendar already filled up (many thanks to everyone who signed up!) and the Summer/Fall calendar will be sent out in June or July.