Age Requirement: 14+

Duration: 7 consecutive weeks / 2hrs per session.

Price: £280

Course Description:

Join us for a 7-week course that uses hand-building techniques to create sculptural forms. Throughout the course, you will create two or more intricate pieces, allowing you to explore and express your unique artistic vision through a variety of clay bodies, textures, and surface treatments. In addition to hands-on crafting, we will cover essential design principles, construction methods, and finishing techniques. This comprehensive approach is designed to enhance your ability to create cohesive and expressive sculptures. 

While previous hand-building experience is preferred, all participants with a passion for clay are welcome.

Course Outline:

• Week 1: Introduction to Sculpture / Basic Techniques and Clay Preparation

  Embark on your sculptural journey with a comprehensive introduction to sculpture as an art form. In this week, you will explore the various types of sculptures, fundamental principles of three-dimensional design, and the unique properties of clay that influence your work.

  You’ll be introduced to essential hand-building techniques, including pinching, coiling, and slab construction. Through hands-on practical exercises, you will learn how to prepare clay properly, ensuring it is malleable and ready for sculpting.

  As you start creating your first small sculptures, you will focus on developing basic forms that help build your skills and boost your confidence in working with clay.

  Homework: To further enhance your understanding and creativity, sketch several design ideas for sculptures based on the principles you've learned. Use these sketches as a foundation for the pieces you will develop in the upcoming weeks.

• Week 2: Slab Construction / Functional Sculptures

  Dive deeper into slab construction, focusing on how to roll out even slabs, cut shapes, and assemble them into functional sculptures like boxes, trays, or small sculptures. You will learn techniques for joining slabs securely (using the score and slip method) and explore creative design options, emphasising surface texture and form.

• Week 3: Advanced Slab Techniques / Creative Forms

  Continue developing your slab building skills by exploring more advanced techniques. You’ll experiment with combining slabs into more complex forms and structures, such as multi-part sculptures. Focus on how to use texture, layering, and decorative elements to enhance your sculptures' visual appeal and conceptual depth.

• Week 4: Coil Building Techniques / Structural Forms I

  Transition into coil building techniques, starting with the basics of rolling coils and stacking them to create structural forms. You will focus on the beginnings of a sculpture while emphasising stability, balance, and the smooth integration of coils. This week will provide the foundational skills necessary for more complex coil projects.

• Week 5: Coil Building Techniques / Structural Forms II

  Continue developing your coil building skills, creating a more intricate and artistic sculptural form. Focus on refining techniques for shaping and joining coils, as well as exploring different ways to add height and complexity to your structures. This week encourages experimentation with style and personal expression in your coil-built works.

• Week 6: Surface Treatment Techniques / Texturing and Finishing

  Explore various surface treatment techniques to enhance your sculptures. This week will cover texturing methods, carving, and applying underglazes or slips. You will learn how to create visual interest and depth in your work, preparing your pieces for the final decorative touches.

• Week 7: Creative Expression / Slip Decoration and Final Presentation

  In the final week, delve into creative expression through slip decoration techniques. You will learn how to apply slips for colour and texture, including brushing, trailing, and pouring techniques. Focus on enhancing your finished sculptures, allowing you to personalise your work and experiment with decorative elements before final glazing (Final pieces will be left to dry slowly and be clear glazed by the tutor). The course will culminate in a presentation where you can showcase your completed works and share your creative journey with your peers.

Whats Included:

• All materials, including clay, tools, and glazes.

• Expert guidance from experienced tutors.

• Firing of your completed pieces.

• By the end of the course, you’ll have a selection of handmade pottery to take home and the basic skills needed to continue your pottery journey.

Suggested Follow up Courses:

• Hand-Building: 2 Week Practice Block (Lvl 1)

• Hand-Building: 5 Week Course - Level 1 (The Basics)

• Pottery Wheel: 5 Week Course - Level 1 (The Basics)

• Pottery Wheel: 5 Week Course - Level 1 (Bowls)