Modelling, casting and other techniques
Ref: SSS10545
Suitable for all
£915Work with a variety of materials, such as clay, wire, wax and wood, to explore sculptural themes and forms. Through a series of exercises and taking inspiration from two models, the surrounding South Downs landscape, music or your own emotions, experiment with how materials can express these ideas and forms. There is time to explore further in your chosen area.
The College has a rich surrounding landscape which has influenced many artists. You will explore three-dimensional form in response to five different influences, including the landscape, reclining figure, the portrait head, music and your own emotions, and to explore a variety of sculptural materials in different working conditions (field, studio, whilst moving etc.). Through a process of structured exercises and experimentation, you will extend your field of enquiry – perhaps what excites you most – to develop a longer sculptural study and perhaps a larger sculpture (up to 24 inches).
Simple, single, sculpture materials provide a means of creating sculptural form without unnecessary visual complication. You will begin working with clay, plasticine, wax, wire, soap and balsa, assessing each material for its qualities until you find one to pursue your longer study. You will make four small sculptures (6-9 inches in size) in four different materials and then discuss, with the group, the different responses. The tutor will then support you as you develop a longer study from one of these pieces.
By the end of the course, you will have gained an appreciation of four sculptural materials and their use for modelling/building up and reduction/taking away from the block, where appropriate. You will also have an understanding of some of the sculptural qualities which contribute to strong form, and an ability to judge yours and others' work.
A feature of the Summer School is an immersive learning experience, with more time to develop your creativity and embrace further opportunities for creative development beyond your chosen course.
Several early evening creative sessions (5.10pm - 7pm) are planned throughout the week. Extra activities will differ this year in response to social distancing. A detailed timetable for your Summer School week will be given to you on arrival. This will include:
• Short inspirational talks by tutors and displays of their work
• Sign up for early evening tutor-led drawing sessions in the garden
• Time to relax or explore in the tranquil West Dean Gardens
• Take a break from your course with some free time on Tuesday afternoon, from 3.30-5pm
• Informal end-of-course group reviews and displays of students' work in studios
Timetable for Summer Schools
Several evening events are planned throughout the week, a detailed timetable for the summer schools will be given to you on arrival.
Arrival Day
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).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops, 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 should vacate their rooms by 10am please.
A tutor with 10 years experience teaching at West Dean on both short and degree courses, he has recently created bespoke short sculpture courses for the degree course at UCA, Canterbury, Yorkshire Sculpture Park and The Sainsbury Centre for the Visual Arts, UEA.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.