Ref: SLW40293
In this course, you will be taught how to create a hollow formed animal sculpture using slabs of clay, along with coiling and modelling techniques. The tutor will demonstrate techniques to make a three-dimensional sculpture, which you can then apply individually or in combination to create your own sculptural animal. This course is ideal for individuals with prior experience working with clay who are interested in exploring new approaches to sculpting.
Initially, you will observe the tutor's demonstration and replicate the process to familiarise yourself with the technique for making freestanding, portraiture and wall-mountable pieces. Subsequently, you will commence work on your own unique piece. Each participant will receive personalised guidance based on the specific animal they have selected to sculpt.
You are encouraged to choose an animal of your choice, such as a rhino, elephant, primate, hare, pet or farm animal. It is recommended that you bring along detailed visual references, including photographs, drawings and sketches of your chosen animal. During the first session, you will be encouraged to create some basic expressive sketches and maquettes following the guidance of your tutor. Familiarity with the animal's skeletal structure, as well as various perspectives (front, rear and overhead views), will greatly enhance the final outcome.
The primary goal is to capture the essence of the animal and imbue the sculpture with a sense of individual character, expression and movement. By the end of the course, you should feel proficient in the technique and capable of adapting it to inform your future projects.
You will have the opportunity to work with a suitable handbuilding white clay chosen for its exceptional strength in the early stages of sculpting. The hollow nature of the sculpture allows for internal shaping if needed, reducing the need for extensive hollowing out.
On the last day, you will have one or two complete sculptures and the tutor will teach basic coloured slip decoration techniques that you can use to enhance the aesthetic appeal of your sculptures, though this is optional. Alternatively, you may take your work away for firing, and further decorate elsewhere.
All clay and firing if work is left at the College for biscuit firing (Large work in size and quantity may be charged extra.)
Images, photographs, drawings, sketches, etc. of the animal you have chosen to make. Knowledge of the skeletal structure of the animal will be of a great advantage, and views from all sides: front and rear and from above, wherever possible, will enable a good outcome.
Any modelling tools you have, fine tools are especially useful (marked with your name) An apron and covered non-slip footwear.
Available from shop:
Firing and Glazing Options:
Leave any raw, finished pieces that you wish to keep for biscuit firing by the College, for collection within six months.
Take away your unfired sculpture for firing and underglazing elsewhere.
Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).
Arrival day - first date of course
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm for registration
Student welcome, followed by dinner: 6.45pm (dinner included)
Teaching session: 8pm-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 (lunch included)
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 - last date of course
Course teaching: 9.15am-3pm (lunch included)
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.
Jack Durling is a ceramic animal sculptor based in Brighton. He studied at Brighton University in 2014 and has run workshops with Blind Veterans UK and several educational facilities. He is currently working with Maidstone Borough Council to create a permanent public sculpture and is a David Shepherd Wildlife Foundation shortlisted wildlife artist in 2022.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
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