Alain Lovenberg

GMP Instructor 2012, 2008

Jump To: Biography • 2008 Course Info • View Gallery of Work

Full Gold Inlaid Background & Low Relief Engraving

2012 Course Objective

July 30 – August 10

Explore the meticulous and wonderful Belgian techniques of Alain Lovenberg. This course covers full gold inlaid background and low relief engraving. This technique of sculpture on metal is appropriate for the decoration of luxury guns or knives, as well as high-end jewelry engraving and die making.

During this intensive course, students will learn how to make tools, create cuts, prepare metal, and execute these highly specialized methods. Lovenberg will teach students how to carve the outlines of a scene or element with hammer and chisel, as well as with flat and round gravers using power-assisted tools, and how to complete the carving with rifflers and punches.

Since many of these tools are not readily available for purchase, Lovenberg will also demonstrate how to make and use punches for this technique. He will also show step-by-step how to use the Belgian technique of relevoir to prepare the dovetail with a chasing tool. Each student will receive individual attention and guidance to achieve the best possible result on the final project.

Topics of Study

Preparing the surface material
Overview of tools used for techniques
Demonstration of tool creation
Carving and sculpting methods for low relief
How to prepare the background for full gold inlay
Illustrated use of various lines of cuts
Applying techniques to final project
Individual evaluations of progress
Personalized technical advice

Project

The unique design and execution techniques shown in this course will be used by each person to create a sculpted low relief engraving, complete with full gold inlaid background and gold accents throughout the design. All gold required for the course is provided with course fees and will be applied to the final project, which is the property of the student.

Biography

Growing up near Liège, a city famous for its heritage of engraving and manufacturing firearms, Alain was naturally drawn to such a wonderful art. Born in 1950 in the Belgian Ardennes, he acquired a passion for drawing early during his childhood and began studying engraving at the age of 18.

A specialized engraving school in the heart of Liège allowed him the opportunity to learn from master engraver Jean Dossin. During his time at the engraving school, he forged a friendship with Philippe Grifnée, who studied under master engraver René Delcour.

Although he started his professional career with jewelry engraving, he soon turned to the prestigious and creative field of arms engraving. This expanded his career, giving him a thorough skill set. Through patience and perseverance, he has become a highly-respected and renowned engraver, upholding the fine Belgian heritage of engraving.

2008 Course Objective

This course will cover the traditional method of shading game scenes, landscapes and the human figure. As opposed to the Italian method of shading with small dots, this classical technique implements engraved lines. A wide variety of effects and suggested textures can be created focusing on this graver-centric technique.