Course Details
This advanced, three-day course is an intensive study of 3D sculpture focused on the unique challenge and beauty of alabaster. It is strictly for those who have worked with stone before and have some carving experience (e.g., prior work with limestone or soapstone) who are ready to push their technical and artistic boundaries.
The class is highly intimate, limited to a maximum of 3 persons due to the specialised nature of the material and the limited availability of power tools, ensuring you receive personalised, dedicated mentorship. I will be passing onto you everything I have learned but allowing you to find your own style.
- Duration: 3 full days (9am – 4pm daily), with provided short breaks and a longer lunch break. Please bring your own lunch; drinks and refreshments are provided.
- Stone Cost (Extra): The course fee does NOT include the cost of the alabaster. Weights vary, but an estimated 15kg block costs £85 (available in various colours from Southern Stone).
Program of Study
The curriculum is designed to transform your existing skill set into mastery, specifically focusing on the properties of alabaster:
- Stone Properties: A detailed talk on alabaster—its creation, unique qualities, and how to best read the grain and color to inform your carving.
- Technique Mastery: Learn advanced Profiling and Carving Direct techniques for 3D form generation.
- Power Tools: A thorough Health & Safety introduction with dedicated instruction on the effective and safe use of power tools for shaping alabaster.
- Sculpting Process: The full process is covered: design planning (drawing out and creating a clay maquette if needed), outline, rough out, refine, and finish.
- Presentation: Comprehensive instruction on post-carving finishing, including possible mounting and pinning options for your finished sculpture.
You will take away a finished, highly refined alabaster 3D carving.
