Ref: SLW30035
You will be guided through the drawing process, refining your design which could be based on a simple, rounded shape, such as a seedpod, simple shell or interesting stone. Then you will be introduced to the gouge, how to use it safely and to rough out your piece from a small block of lime wood. Your sculpture and its stand will be carved in a small limewood block (approximately 7cm x 7cm x 11.36cm) with proportions based on the golden ratio.
You will be taught how to use a woodcarver’s mallet and push carving techniques.
Through a process of sculpting and observing, you will hone your sculpture using different chisels, learning their role and the technique to use them. Your sculpture design may change as you go, a dynamic process, not fixed giving it room develop with each cut.
You will learn:
The importance of drawing and designing before carving
To realise a three-dimensional design in a block of wood
To build confidence in using different shaped chisels and understanding their purposes.
To produce textures and mark-making on wood.
About the different treatments and finishes that will complete your sculpture, in a fun, inspirational and supportive learning environment
The tutor will lead you through the process, step-by-step building up a richly textured carving, alongside the basics of sharpening woodcarving chisels and an introduction to the debate of woodcarving and its place in art. If you are an experienced carver you will be able to create your own design and helped to develop further your craft. Those of you with little or no experience will be introduced to the basics and given a structured introduction to woodcarving.
By the end of the course, you will have a basic understanding of the process of woodcarving and begun a personal exploration of woodcarving and its place in art. You will leave with a completed sculpture and the ability to plan for your next piece.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.
6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).
8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.
Daily timetable
Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.
From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.
Last day
Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.
Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Alex Jones learnt his craft at City & Guilds Art College and in a traditional studio before concentrating commissions. His work can be seen at Durrell Wildlife Park, Jersey and the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Cornwall. He has many pieces in private collections worldwide and has appeared on the BBC's Spring Watch and as a featured artist on the TV programme "Flog it!"
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Places available - Book now
Places available - Book now
2 places available - Book now
Our Foundation Degree specialising in Furniture is designed to give you well-rounded woodworking theory and craft skills to become a self-employed maker or craftsperson, to continue your studies in higher education or to find employment in the creative industry sector. Find out more