This
is a practical course with each day covering different techniques and skills in
sculpting. During the sessions, each student will work on a piece of sculpture
and will learn the skills to develop this artwork. The emphasis will be put
strongly on practical work we will be using examples to work from, but students
will be able to create their own work.
Each
day will start with a short lecture looking at examples from the great artists
that sculpted in the particular materials and techniques to be used during the
day. This will be followed by a short practical tutorial looking at particular
techniques used in sculpting reinforced with examples and demonstrations. These
will be followed in a step-by-step method to learn the basic skills needed. There
will then be a practical session where these techniques are applied. Towards
the end of the session there will be a group critique of the artworks, looking
at what has been achieved during the class, this will be finished with a look
at what the next day holds.
During
the practical sessions, there will be one to one practical tutorials with each
member of the group looking in particular at how to realise their work. This
will involve the aesthetic qualities of their creation as well as practical
tips and knowledge.
While
all tools, safety equipment and materials are provided it is recommended that participants
wear older clothes and an apron. Eye protection will be provided but if participants
have their own (prescription) glasses these should provide ample protection.
Monday
Introduction
to tutor and to sculpture with a short lecture on the amazing history of
sculpture.
Tutorial
on tools and techniques. Demonstration of techniques for getting started,
including health and safety. Where to source tools and materials.
Start
practical work, work with Aluminium mesh and wire to create delicate and
captivating forms based around the works of Naum Gabo and Richard Deacon
Tuesday
Cutting and shaping metal and learning about
its peculiar qualities. Building on day 1 techniques of cutting to develop
skills in joining metal through riveting, bolting and folding, to create a
robust sculpture using the work of Anthony Caro and Richard Serra as inspiration
Wednesday
Exploring
the copper beating and how precious metal is beaten including limited use of
heat to anneal the copper to allow it to be worked into bowls and curved forms
from plain sheet. Looking to Silvermith Hiroshi Suzuki to inspire.
Thursday
Carving
or modelling small forms in Wax or Air-dry clay we will then use small sand
cast formers to make moulds which then have Pewter poured in to realise our
small sculptures into Cast Metal. The cast art of the Vikings will provide
inspiration.
Friday
Finishing
your sculptures and looking at surface treatments polishing and finishes. Exhibition
and critique of works.
