Carrying the work forward
What Lloyd Le Blanc and Judith Holmes Drewry created was not simply a foundry, but a lifelong commitment to sculpture, craftsmanship and the artists they worked alongside.
Originally established so Lloyd could cast his own work and Judith’s with complete artistic control, the foundry gave extraordinary scope to the scale and technical ambition of their sculpture, including works such as Flock of 29 Turns.
Over time, Lloyd began casting for other sculptors, initially friends and contemporaries. This side of the foundry has grown and in recent years the foundry has opened its doors to artists and sculptors whose work we greatly admire, including Hywel Pratley, Andrian Melka, and Tristan MacDougall, all of whom have been teaching sculpture in Lloyd’s clay studios.
Those relationships, built over decades through trust, collaboration and a shared commitment to sculpture, remain at the heart of the foundry today.
Faye Le Blanc has worked alongside her father for the past fifteen years, first as a partner and later as a director, helping oversee commissions, artist relationships and the day-to-day running of the foundry. The work now continues under her direction, alongside the existing team, with the same commitment to lost-wax bronze casting and support for artists that Lloyd and Judith established over more than five decades.
Alongside continuing the foundry’s casting work, the next chapter will also look towards opening the space more widely through workshops, events and creative gatherings, carrying forward the generous and welcoming spirit that both Lloyd and Judith created there.
Frequently asked questions
The following questions answer some of the most common enquiries about the future of the foundry and the work ahead.
What happens to the foundry now?
The foundry will continue as it always has. Bronze casting remains at the heart of what we do, and the workshop, team and day-to-day work will carry on with the same commitment to craftsmanship and artists that Lloyd and Judith dedicated their lives to.
Will the foundry continue operating as it has done?
Yes. While this is naturally a significant personal loss for the family and everyone connected to the foundry, the work itself continues. The values, processes and approach that Lloyd built over decades remain unchanged.
Are you still taking on new commissions and working with artists?
Yes. The foundry continues to work closely with artists, collectors and commissioners on both public and private projects. In recent years, Faye Le Blanc has already been overseeing commissions and working closely with artists and the foundry team on projects including the Queen sculpture in Oakham, alongside a number of private commissions.
What does this transition mean for artists currently working with the foundry?
Very little will change in practical terms. The foundry continues to operate with the same team, techniques and collaborative approach. Of course, many artists will deeply miss Lloyd himself — his dry humour, encouragement and inspiration.
Will there be any changes to the way the foundry works or the services it offers?
No. We will continue offering the same lost-wax bronze casting services and supporting artists in the same way we always have.
Is existing work and sculpture still available to view or purchase?
Yes. Sculptures by Lloyd and Judith Le Blanc remain available. Their works were produced in small, limited editions, and we will continue casting and making these pieces available going forward.
How will you approach leading the foundry in the future?
Alongside continuing the foundry’s casting work, the next chapter will build carefully on the creative and welcoming environment Lloyd Le Blanc and Judith Holmes Drewry created there.
The foundry has recently taken on two new apprentices, and remains committed to developing traditional techniques while supporting artists and makers at every stage of their careers.
What have you learned from Lloyd and Judith that will shape the next chapter?
Everything.
From my mother, Judith, I learned generosity, hospitality and the importance of creating spaces where people feel welcome. She was an extraordinary cook, a passionate gardener and a great supporter of young people and emerging creatives. I hope to continue that spirit through workshops, gatherings and special events, while continuing to care for and develop her sculpture garden.
From my father, I learned dedication to craft. Lloyd devoted his life to lost-wax bronze casting, and I want to honour that legacy by continuing the foundry with the same care, rigour and commitment to quality.
Will the team and craftspeople at the foundry remain the same?
Largely, yes. Two new apprentices, Jo and Hannah, have recently joined the foundry, alongside long-standing members of the team, [NAME] and Andrew.
Andrew joined the foundry at 16 years old and is now in his 50s, which speaks to the continuity and loyalty that has always existed here.
What can artists and clients expect in the months ahead?
This year will naturally be a quieter one as we take stock and navigate this next chapter. Looking ahead, we there are plans to gradually open the foundry and workshop space further through special events, workshops and potentially residential stays, creating opportunities for people to engage more deeply with the craft, the artists and the environment my parents built here.