Ref: SWE33386
Architecture and sculpture are the guiding disciplines for this course. The aim of this course is to develop a language and way of translating ideas about space, material, scale and form into what your tutor calls ‘architectural sculpture’.
Plaster sculpture comes in many forms, seemingly miraculously. In its liquid state, plaster can be poured into a mould. In its plastic state, it can also be worked with in situ. In its solid state, it can be manipulated reductively with the use of tools. During this workshop, you will learn these varying properties of plaster by making small test fragments. In doing this, you will develop a greater understanding of the potential and limitations of this versatile material.
We will begin the course by introducing you to the various tools used in plaster sculpture, how to arrange your workspace and how to ensure you have a safe working environment. We will explore methods to mix the material, with reference to ratios of plaster to water. We will then go step-by-step through a series of short sketch exercises to help you develop sculptural prototypes. These will help you form a language of architecture and sculpture and therefore a way to construct space and form. We will work individually but also as a group to learn different methods.
Finally, you will work on your own small architectural sculpture, one which summarises the knowledge gained in this short course. You will leave this course with a set of skills to confidently create a unique sculpture in the future on your own.
Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above
Courses start early evening. 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 for residential students).
Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, 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 are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.
(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)
Paul Francis Feeney has a practice which researches sculpture, architecture, and social pursuits. He has worked in Switzerland, the Netherlands, Hong Kong and Thailand. He currently teaches at the Architectural Association in London and has a studio in Dorset where he explores Architectural Sculpture.
Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.
Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study.
Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.
