Introduction to Sculpting

Perfect for beginners and those wanting to expand their knowledge through a simple sculptural project, this course will provide foundational skills to take forward into more ambitious builds in the future. 

Making sculpture is fun, expressive and experimental building on our own emotions, results are not always factual or precise but to the observer they can radiate feeling and individuality, from Rodin’s Thinker to Nick Park’s Wallace and Gromit figures!

In each week of this hands-on course you will follow step by step demonstrations to explore and develop skills to create three-dimensional figures. We will combine ceramic construction techniques to capture characteristics and gestures, whilst using comparative measurement and observational studies to capture proportion and emotion. Throughout the course you will work towards a finished form, developing knowledge of:

• Small-scale quick studies
• Transform your drawings or photos into 3D artworks
• Constructing three-dimensional forms
• The use of props, plinths and texture
• Understanding the importance of “movement or gesture” within a study
• Individual features, skeleton, muscle, hair
• Explore the importance of choice of clay body, storage, finish

At the end of the course you will have completed a small reclining or seated figure (a macquette) together with another larger completed form approx. 30cm tall of either a full figure or a human torso.

This course is open to adults (16+). The cost includes instruction and the items you make to take home. Refreshments and drinks are also included.

This course is led by Helen Ashton