Animal Sculpture Two Day Workshop

Learn how to study, build and sculpt an animal in clay on this immersive two-day workshop.

Ideal for those with a good understanding of working with clay and who wish to broaden their experience with sculptural work. 

YOUR TUTOR

Brighton-based artist Jack Durling creates ceramic sculptures celebrating the animal kingdom. His work focuses on natural behaviours and character, and often features decorative embellishments.

Jack will demonstrate his method and techniques to build a hollow-form animal sculpture in clay. He will then guide you through the process step-by-step as you create your sculpture, from reference sketch to finished piece.

PREPARATION

Doing a little research into your chosen animals before the workshop achieves more resolved and informed outcomes. Sketches and photos of your preferred subject are very helpful, especially if shown at different angles and perspectives, but you don't need to provide your own photo-realistic drawings or be able to draw very well as the focus will be on basic anatomical shapes and forms. Pay attention to features like eyes, feet, ears, limbs, and profiles from the side and head-on if you can. Consider the position the animal is in, whether standing, sitting or laying down. What are its distinguishing features and typical characteristics? You may be drawn to sculpt a wild animal such as a big cat or bear, perhaps a domestic animal or a beloved family pet.

WORKSHOP OUTLINE

Jack will demonstrate his method and techniques to build a hollow-form animal sculpture in clay. He will then guide you through the process step-by-step as you create your sculpture, from reference sketch to finished piece.

DAY ONE: Study of form and preliminary build

Using your reference materials as a guide, you will engage in loose drawing exercises aimed at helping you determine the composition of your sculpture. Firstly creating a rough maquette, you will then set to work on a larger sculptural piece, which should not exceed 25cm x 25cm in size.

This first day will cover coiling, slab building, and armature techniques to help you realise your ideas in three dimensions.

DAY TWO: Adding character, refinement and texture

The second day will be dedicated to further developing your sculptures, overall refinement, and infusing narrative and character into your work. Participants will also have the chance to experiment with various surface textures.

FURTHER DETAILS

This two day workshop is open to adults (18+) who have a good understanding of working with clay and wish to broaden their experience with sculptural work. You should feel very comfortable with a range of handbuilding techniques such as slabbing, coiling, etc.

A light vegetarian lunch and refreshments are provided, the bisque firing and items you have made to take home are included in the workshop price. Please let us know of any special dietary requirements when booking, by adding a message in the comments box.