Sculpture - Stage 1

Course intent

This course will provide you with a comprehensive foundation in sculpting, equipping you with the skills and techniques needed to create your own sculptural pieces with confidence. You will work in a supportive and creative learning environment, where you will be encouraged to explore and develop your craft. The tutor will offer one-to-one support throughout the course, ensuring you receive personalized guidance and help with your progress. Regular group discussions will allow you to share your work and insights with fellow leaners. In addition, the tutor will give demonstrations of various sculpting techniques, helping you develop your skills and refine your craft effectively.

What will I learn?

You will learn:

Material Knowledge: Understand the various materials used in sculpture, with a particular focus on clay. Learn how to choose the right materials for your work and gain hands-on experience in modelling with clay, focusing on key techniques for shaping and refining your sculptures.

Design Techniques: Discover how to plan and design your sculptures, turning your sketches and ideas into tangible works of art. Learn how to effectively transform your initial concepts into finished sculptural pieces.

Production Process: Learn the step-by-step process of creating a sculpture, from the initial idea to the final product. This includes all the technical aspects of sculpting, such as building a sturdy armature from wire, which is essential for supporting clay sculptures.

Craftsmanship: Develop the necessary skills to create fine, detailed sculptures. Focus on craftsmanship, paying attention to precision, and learn how to work with proportion—whether enlarging or reducing your sculptures to the correct scale.

Studio Practice: Gain valuable experience working in a studio setting. Learn best practices for maintaining your workspace, tools, and materials, while also collaborating with peers and receiving constructive feedback on your work.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

Stage 1 - This stage is for learners who are new to their chosen subject area. With the focus on introducing individuals to basic materials, tools, and techniques, and to inspire confidence in creative expression.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

You need to bring:

• A sketchbook and pen/pencil
• Sensible, closed toe shoes
• Clothes for messy work and an oversized shirt or apron

You will be advised of any further basic personal protection, such as gloves, eyewear, materials and tools by the tutor during the course.

Additional Costs/Information:

• Materials: Most consumable materials, such as clay are included in the course fees.
• Firing Limitations: Sculptures that require firing are limited to 25cm high.

For any queries, please email adultlearning@surreycc.gov.uk

What can I do when I finish the course?

In discussion with your tutor, you may like to progress onto Sculpture - Stage 2, Sculpture workshops or further Arts & Crafts courses at SAL.

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.

We value and support equality, diversity and inclusion by promoting fairness and respect at all times.

How to enrol

Our courses are for adult learners aged 19 or over. If you are under 19, please call 0300 200 1044.

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