Life figurative sculpture intensive

What is the course about?

This will be an introduction and investigation into the structure and musculature of the human figure using the life model as reference. You will use all this information to create your own sculpture in clay using sculptural modelling techniques.

Your clay sculpture will need time to dry before it is fired. Therefore, it will be fired after the course has finished. During the course your tutor will give you the dates of when your sculpture will be ready to collect.

What will we cover?

- Basic anatomy of the human form.
- How to make observational working drawings of the life-model.
- Introduction to clay modelling expressing the human form.
- How to make an analytical evaluation of your own artwork supported by friendly and supportive feedback.
- A brief introduction to the work of contemporary and historical figurative sculptors.
- An introduction to the safe use of equipment, materials, procedures and practice in the sculpture studio.

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

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

In addition, the more experienced student, will be encouraged to experiment with the 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 discussion. 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?

Materials and Equipment
All materials required for the course are provided.

Please bring a sketchbook, pencils, and a pen for sketching and note-taking. A camera or smartphone is also useful for documenting your work in progress.

What to Wear
Please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes-no sandals or open-toed footwear. Wearing old clothes or overalls is strongly recommended, as some materials may stain or damage fabric.

Health and Safety
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided and must be worn where required. This includes items such as facemasks when working with materials that may release airborne particles.

Firing and Collection of Work

At the end of the course your clay sculptures will be fired to transform them into ceramic. As the work must be completely dry before firing, this process can take several weeks.

Near the end of the course, your tutor will let you know the dates and times for collecting your finished sculpture from the studio. Please note that fired sculptures can be quite heavy, and City Lit is unable to post or deliver completed 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 build your individual sculpture practice.

Please ask your tutor for advice, browse the City Lit website for inspiration, or contact our visual arts team by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or calling 0203 880 2415 Monday - Friday, 11 am - 4 pm.