Beginner's Sculpture Course: Exploring Clay Artistry

Course Overview:

This beginner-friendly sculpture course introduces students to the fundamentals of
working with water-based clay. Designed for those with little to no experience, this
hands-on class will cover essential techniques, tools, and methods to create expressive
and well-structured clay sculptures. Students will develop their skills while exploring
their creativity in a supportive and engaging environment.

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What You Will Learn:

1. Introduction to Clay and Tools

- Understanding water-based clay: properties, preparation, and handling

- Overview of essential sculpting tools and their uses

- Proper workspace setup for clay work

2. Sculpting Fundamentals

- Shaping and refining forms

- Working with proportions and symmetry

- Creating textures and surface details

3. Exploring Human and Animal Forms

- Basic anatomy for sculpting figures

- Simplifying complex forms into basic shapes

- Expressing movement and emotion in clay

4. Drying and Finishing

- Managing moisture levels to prevent cracking

- Surface refinement techniques: smoothing, carving, and texturing

- Introduction to slips and underglazes for decoration.

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5. Introduction to Firing and Aftercare

- Understanding drying times before firing

- Overview of kiln firing process (bisque firing basics)

- Maintaining and preserving finished sculptures

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Who Should Take This Course?

This course is perfect for beginners, hobbyists, and aspiring artists looking to explore
sculpture using a versatile and accessible medium. No prior experience is needed—just
a willingness to get your hands dirty and create!

Course Benefits:

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•  Hands-on experience with professional sculpting techniques

•  Guidance on problem-solving common clay issues

•  A completed sculpture to take home and display.

•  A foundation for further exploration in sculpture and ceramics

This beginner’s clay sculpture course is designed to inspire confidence and creativity
while teaching essential techniques that students can build upon. Join us and bring your
artistic ideas to life in three dimensions!

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To check availability or schedule a session, please call the studio at (717) 614-0317 and ask for Bob.

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