This creative course gives you the opportunity to make your own relief wall plaque depicting foliage gathered from West Dean Gardens. You will learn the skill of how to mix and work plaster as well as the benefits of incorporating cellulose.

Plaster of Paris is a versatile material; historically it has been used for decorative ceilings and picture frames and used to cast replicas of sculptures. Plaster is the base for fresco paintings. In the ceramics industry it is used to make moulds for slip casting, at art school this was an integral part of the curriculum.

As a ceramic artist, working with her environment, clay is the primary material used in Miranda’s practice, however, plaster has long been a tool in the making of her ceramics; She uses it for drop moulds and formers as part of her process of hand building with clay. Canadian ceramic artist Trudy Golly introduced her to the benefits of adding cellulose to plaster and it transformed her use of plaster; it became a material she liked working with rather than a necessary means to an end. The wet plaster is easier to work. The strength is increased so less plaster is used and the finished piece is much lighter and finer, so easier to handle.

This course will provide practical knowledge to enable further development in your own work practice, or just provide you with a new skill. No previous experience in plasterwork is needed.

Also explained, and if time allows demonstrated, is how to;

Make a direct plaster impression

Make a simple positive and negative mould

Make a simple drop mould

Included

• On this course the College will supply all of the materials.
• Plaster of Paris, mould makers size (soft soap), vegetable oil, string, cellulose (toilet roll), reclaimed clay, foliage from West Dean Garden.

What students need to bring

• An apron and a notebook/pen.

Available to buy

• Available from shop:
• Hand tools (these are also available for use in the pottery)

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Timetable for one day courses

Students should arrive by 9am for registration.

Classes are from 9.15 - 5pm

Lunch is included.

Terms & Conditions