Rachel Dein

“I enjoy the magic of plaster casting to create fossils from everyday life — whether it’s a shell found on holiday, your grandmother’s treasured lace, a Christening gown, or the flowers from your wedding” 

Rachel Dein’s method of plaster casting captures everyday objects in a unique and delicate way. She makes impressions in wet clay, and then pours plaster directly over it. The clay captures the most intricate details, subtly colouring the plaster as it sets. Each clay mould can only be used once, making every piece unique. Casts are then finished and refined by hand, some casts are then painted. 

Rachel studied Fine Art at Middlesex University, followed by a propmaking apprenticeship at the English National Opera. She has worked as a propmaker for The Royal Opera House, English National Opera, The Globe Theatre, West End Theatres, London Transport Museum, Selfridges Christmas window, Rothschild Villa, Corfu and Artist Gavin Turk

Commission examples: 

Family Portrait - I was commissioned to create a family portrait using objects that had been chosen by the parents and their two boys.

18th Birthday present - A tile made with the flowers from a grandmother’s garden. She wanted my work to celebrate happy childhood memories on her 18th birthday.

Weddings - My method of plaster casting will capture your bridal bouquet in a unique and delicate way. 

If you’d like to commission me to create a bespoke artwork please email me.