Sculpture I: Head and Portraiture

Instructor: Adrian Golban
Tuesdays 5:30-8:30pm
10 weeks: September 23 to December 9 (no classes September 30 and November 11)
Location: In-person Williams Building room 117
$397.50 (includes equipment rental fee)
Prerequisite: None


Students will explore the principles and visual elements of sculpture by working in plasticine or clay to measure and build a head armature. Then use these acquired skills to make a basic bust with correct facial landmarks. This will help to understand the symmetry, front versus profile views and rhythms of the face. Following this class, students will have the opportunity to register for a weekend workshop to learn how to use their plasticine or clay sculptures to create a silicone or plaster mold.

Syllabus

  • Focus is on the geometry of the skull, facial proportions, blocking out major volumes
  • Goal is to understand head construction using simple planes (Loomis method or similar)
  • Key concepts: symmetry, front vs profile views, rhythms of the face

Supplies

  • Clay: M340
  • Clay Cutter #1045
  • Kemper R1 #1316
  • WT6, wooden Knife #1382, or Fettling Knives #1278
  • Jaz Tools (1 and 3) #1267
  • Aluminum Caliper 8” or 10”
  • Tooth Clay Pottery Sculpting Tools - Ribbon Tools:
    • G25 A - # 3225
    • G17 A - #3224
    • G10 A - #3223
  • Kemper W24 Combo Wire Wood Sculpting Clay Ribbon Tool (to be ordered)
  • Wooden/plywood board minimum 9” x 8” for the clay work support.
  • 2 rulers (line gauge)
  • 3 wooden BBQ skewers (from a dollar store or grocery for example)

Clay and tools may be purchased at T&T Tree Pottery Supply. If you have any questions, please contact us and Adrian will be happy to advise.