Introduction to sculpture

What is the course about?

This course is designed to give you an exciting hands-on introduction to the basic principles of sculpture in our purpose-built well-equipped studio in the heart of London. This course is perfect for beginners who want to try out a range of sculptural techniques and materials, providing you with an excellent grounding in the subject. In each of the five classes you will be taught a different sculptural process by a tutor who is a specialist in that area. You will have an opportunity to shape, join, carve and cast from moulds you have made. The materials you will be working with include, metal, wood, clay and plaster. You will be supported in each class to develop your skills and ideas through making, to become familiar with the sculpture workshop, tools and terminology. Additionally, you will be introduced to the history of sculpture and take inspiration from other artists.

What will we cover?

The course will cover a range of techniques within each material or process.

Monday 5th August 2024: Clay modelling with Shelley Wilson
Tuesday 6th August 2024: Papier mache with Ro Sylvester
Wednesday 7th August 2024: Wood carving with Alex Harley
Thursday 8th August 2024: Mould making and casting with Ro Sylvester
Friday 9th August 2024: Metalwork with Andrew Revell.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

-A knowledge of appropriate materials for making sculpture.
-Use additive sculpture making, for example modelling with clay.
-Use subtractive sculpture making, for example carving.
-Use sculptural technical terms.
-Use specialist tools.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is designed for complete beginners but is also well suited to those with some experience, or those returning to making who wish to refresh their skills.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

You will be fully supported by a specialist tutor. Teaching methods include demonstrations by the tutor to the whole group, practical activities and one-to-one feedback and guidance.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

All essential materials and equipment will be provided and are included in the course fee.

You must wear sturdy shoes, that cover the whole foot (no open toe). Please also wear old working clothes or bring overalls.

We also recommend that you bring a sketchbook/notebook and pencils to sketch and make notes. A camera is also useful to photograph your work.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

The City Lit sculpture department offers a wide range of exciting courses that will allow you to progress from beginner to advanced and learn a range of techniques. After this course you may wish to join a similar course to develop your skills further or try something completely different. We offer courses in prop making, metal, clay, wax, carving in stone and wood, mould making and casting in Jesmonite, or pewter and much more! Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto the year-long City Lit Sculpture course VU841, which helps you to build your own individual sculpture practice.

We are constantly adding new courses. Please ask your tutor for advice or browse the City Lit website for inspiration. It is also possible to contact our visual arts team by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk, or calling 0203 880 2415 Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm.