In our sculpture class, you'll model a life-size portrait head in clay and gradually bring out its expression and character.
Proportions and the Structure of a Clay Model
In our sculpture course, you’ll learn how to confidently establish the basic proportions of the human head based on a model. From there, we’ll work our way step by step toward the details: the eye area, nose, mouth, and ears—the areas that determine likeness and expression. In the process, you’ll train your eye for the interplay of volume, light, and shadow, and learn how even the slightest changes can alter the effect of a face.
Form-Building and Plaster Casting
In the second part of the course, the fragile clay model is transformed into a stable plaster model: you’ll create your own casting mold and cast your portrait head in plaster. This classic step in the sculpting process—molding and casting—is often admired only from a distance; here, you’ll perform it yourself. At the end, you’ll take your finished plaster sculpture home with you.
Who is this course for?
The workshop is designed for adults and teens with or without prior experience. Beginners will receive a thorough introduction to modeling with clay, while advanced participants will deepen their knowledge of anatomy and portraiture. Materials and tools are provided; please bring work clothes.
Course instructor: Henning Spitzer, sculptor and painter
