Working from a model, you will experience modelling a portrait head in clay and prepare a mask for firing at the College after the course.
The tutor will introduce you to the process for making a life-sized clay portrait, working directly from the model. You will learn to improve your observation skills and recognise the factors which affect how you use your eyes effectively. You will create a portrait mask which can be kiln fired after the course. You will experience working in the round, directly from the seated model, and gain an understanding of the practical requirements necessary for observing and modelling a portrait.
You will have the option to purchase your head-peg armature and/or take your complete head home unfired. Works left for firing will be ready for collection about 6-8 weeks after the course ends.
To be successful on this course, you do not need to be able to draw or sculpt, just be enthusiastic about trying a little of everything.
NOTE: This course pushes the boundaries of what is possible with a full day model sitting. You will NOT have time to hollow/process the whole sculpted clay head and as it has no time for the surface to dry, this would be unwise. Hence if you wish the head to stay "as one, in the round, for firing, please book on the longer 3 day course when the technique is explained and practised over a period of hours after the heads sit uncovered overnight.
The mask form, to allow wall hanging or a more complex mounting, is quick and easy and will take place in the last 30 minutes of the taught day. It is a simple cheesewire cut from the post and rudimentary hollowing takes place of the still-damp clay. OR if you wish to take full head away you will either need to purchase your headpeg armature to which it is attached, bring your own armature OR slice it in half at end of the day and take the two halves [from our armature] unhollowed for your later working/rejoining.
Included
All the materials and tools will be supplied for the course, including clay, head-peg/armature, modelling stand, modelling tools, hollowing tools and a model.
What students need to bring
Comfortable footwear and clothing that you don't mind getting clay on and that is not too restrictive for movement while working. Come with an open mind.
Available to buy
Available from shop:
- General drawing equipment and some modelling tools
Additional information
Firing your work:
- Please note that your work will be kept for collection for six months from the date we inform you work is ready for collection.
- Firing of raw, finished pieces: You have two options:
- Leave any raw, finished pieces that you wish to keep, for biscuit firing by the College, for collection within six months.
- You take away your unfired work for firing elsewhere.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio. This includes stout covered footwear, i.e. no open-toes or sandals.
Student registration: 9.15am-9.30am
Course teaching: 9.30am-5pm
Morning session: 9.30am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch included)
Afternoon session: 2pm-5pm
Teaching finishes: 5pm
