Live Model Clay-Sketch Class

Wednesday Evenings (5:00 pm - 8:00 pm)

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The purpose of this exercise is to quickly recognize face shapes, body shape, location of facial features (eyes, nose, ears, etc.), neck, shoulders and hair.  Partial likeness is all one can achieve (sculpt) in this short three-hour class.  I think you'll find this exercise fascinating, educational and a lot of fun!

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"A clay sketch (esguisse in French) is a small sculpture that is modeled quickly (from 10 minutes to a few hours).  It is the first idea put into clay to experiment with poses and composition.

 

Due to the size, sketches require only small supports if they are standing and none for sitting poses.  Details are kept to a minimum and only the proportions and body language are of concern.  They are an important part of the modeling process for they teach speed, dexterity and composition, as well as help resolve balance and gesture. These small sculptures are created in very soft clay on a thin base.

 

"Sometimes, a sketch takes on a life of its own becoming more detailed than anticipated. Even though it can result in a satisfactory piece, this is a practice that should be avoided as it defeats the purpose of these rapid exercises." Philippe Faraut 

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There is no finished sculpture in this evening class, only sketches.  Although, you can use future open studio time to complete this sketch into a maquette.

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Note: The most difficult and sometimes disheartening part of using a model is comparisons. Artists, sculptors should only compare their work to what they see in the model and not what you see others creating.  Keep in mind and thankfully, there will always be someone better (that you that can inspire to be) and worse than you.  Too many times I’ve seen really good sculptors, I mean talented artists leave a workshop dejected because the person next to them was better.  That may have been from experience, education, visual abilities or… they are just better.  Always compare your work to your work not others... learn from others.

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The fact of the matter is, sculpting from life, “quick sculpt” exercise or otherwise will make you a better sculptor… not the best, just better. 

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"Comparison is the thief of joy." Theodore Roosevelt

 

Artists and sculptors must have the ability to work on their own.  This class is not instructed.

 

Non-Open Studio Members or non-students of my workshops must have their own tools.

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Tuition:  $50.00 per class - includes materials

• To join Class or Wait List see: "Enrollment" Tab

• To pay Tuition see: "Methods of Payment" tab

• Included in Open Studio Memberships

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See: Calendar or Enrollment for dates