Clay Figure Sculpture Masterclass

In this masterclass you will spend four days working from a live model to study the art of clay figure sculpture. At the end of the course you will have produced a half life-size sculpture from quality handbuilding clay. On the final day you have the option of continuing to sculpt or preparing your piece for firing into ceramic. If fired your sculpture will be suitable for outdoor display.

We’ll start by making smaller figures, focus intently on the subject and learning to see the underlying structure, working quickly and studying the model at different angles. You’ll discover one of the fascinating aspects of figurative art- a figure is not merely a likeness, there’s some of yourself in there too. Whether it’s how you handle the clay or where you choose to elaborate and edit, it’s quite astonishing.

The process becomes more refined as we start to make armatures for a larger sculpture. Measurement becomes useful and there are more techniques to be applied. As we continue over the weekend I’ll introduce you to the work of many other sculptors and talk you through the different approaches taken in my own work.

The final day includes a session preparing the sculpture for firing into ceramic. Your sculpture will be frost-proof and suitable for placing outside. Firing incurs an extra charge of aproximately £20-£30.

This masterclass includes a choice of lunches, refreshments and all tools and materials. The full course fee is £540 per participant.