You will be working with a life model to create a figure or figures using a variety of materials, including traditional modelling wax – a time honoured material which allows for both detail and accuracy, as well as expression – plaster bandage, masking tape, new clay and found objects. These materials can be used as a form of vocabulary which can be mixed and matched to make both accurately observed sculptures and/or more expressive figures.
A key part of this course will be learning to make simple but effective armatures (under frames for sculptures) out of aluminium wire. These don’t require welding. These armatures can be accurate enough for small figures and can also be scaled up or used with other materials once mastered - a really ‘transferable’ skill to take home with you.
You can choose whether to use the model for an observed study or simply as a starting point for something more expressive, as they will move between various poses so that there is a choice as to the mood and theme of the work you create. You will start with simple three-dimensional sketches in wire and the various materials to familiarise yourselves with them, and then move towards a more considered study or expressive piece as the course progresses.
Your tutor will encourage individual expression in your sculpture making as well as demonstrating techniques, giving group tuition and one-to-one support.
By the end of the course, you will have a completed figure or figures with an armature and learnt many transferable skills for making sculptures using wax, wire, plaster and found objects.
Included
On this course, the College will supply all of the materials, including:
- Wax, armature wire and wooden bases
- The model who will sit for the duration of the course
Large work in size and quantity may be charged extra.
What students need to bring
- Sketch pad, should you wish
Available to buy
Available from shop:
- A good variety of general drawing materials
Additional information
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)
Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm
Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am.
Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.
*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options
