Working in clay from life, this class will focus on both traditional and non-traditional approaches to interpreting the figure as a sculptural subject. There will be an emphasis on observing and translating line, plane, volume, dynamics, and design. These aspects of sculpture will be explored by learning to use the tools and techniques that express them. Students will be encouraged to develop their own ideas in clay. Work can be built on an armature to be cast, and there will also be instruction in how to build clay sculpture to be fired.

In this class, students will learn different techniques to carve wood and stone. Students will learn to carve by traditional means with chisel and hammer as well as modern air or electric tools, depending on their goal. Figurative and nonrepresentational artistic approaches are welcome. Students will be encouraged to create a maquettes out of clay, plaster, or other materials to help them plan their design prior to carving their final piece. The instructor will work individually with each student to help them transfer their design into stone or wood.

This class works from the nude model, with one pose generally lasting the entire school year. The course is designed to instruct the student in sculpting the human figure in terms of its skeletal framework and muscular organization. Students will gain a three-dimensional/functional understanding of the human form from the inside out. Because this course is progressive, students must begin by September in order to attend.