Life figurative sculpture

What is the course about?

This will be an introduction and investigation into the structure and musculature of the human torso, using the lifemodel as reference. You will use all of this information to create your own sculpture in plaster by creating a torso armature and using plaster sculpture techniques.

What will we cover?

- We will visit the Victoria and Albert Museum's casting room and gallery. Here we will sketch from the renaissance and 20th century masters for inspiration in technique and style.
- Basic anatomy of the human form.
- How to make observational working drawings of the life model.
- Introduction to working measurements.
- Preparation and construction of a torso armature.
- Introduction to plaster modelling, expressing the human form.
- How to make an analytical evaluation of your own art work, alongside receiving friendly and supportive feedback.
- A brief introduction into contemporary and historical figurative sculptors.
- An introduction to the safe use of materials, equipment and procedures in the sculpture studio.

The maximum dimensions you will be working to are height 30cm and width 23cm.

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

- Have an understanding of major bones in the skeleton.
- Have a basic understanding of muscle groups in the human form.
- Make preparatory observational drawings ready for your sculpture.
- Demonstrate different measuring techniques straights from the life model.
- Cut and construct a torso armature.
- Demonstrate improved plaster modelling skills towards a finished sculpture.
- Work independently and make aesthetic judgements to develop a self-expressed finished artwork.
- Work safely with materials, equipment and procedures of the subject.

In addition, the more experienced student will be encouraged to experiment with material, surface and working methods, to further advance skills and individual expression; including a choice of composition within pose.

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

All levels welcome.

You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions to support demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You will be invited to take part in group discussions. You should be able to use numbers and do simple measurements and calculations.

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

There will be group demonstrations and plenty of one-to-one help. There will be the opportunity for small group evaluations and discussions.

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 flat sturdy shoes with a closed toe. Please also wear old working clothes that you do not mind getting messy or bring overalls.

Please bring a sketchbook/notebook and pencils to sketch and make notes, and a camera 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, carving in stone and wood, mould making and casting, 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.