Let’s bring expressive creatures to life in clay during this exciting two-day weekend workshop, where you will immerse yourself in the dynamic and imaginative world of animal head wall sculptures!
Using a simple wood armature mounted on an easel, you will learn techniques for building dynamic sculptural forms inspired by realism, personality, and imagination. Working from Tina's curated collection of animal reference images, you will focus on capturing facial structure, expression, movement, and character, especially through the eyes, mouth, and surface details that make each piece come alive.
As the workshop progresses, you will move beyond realism into creative interpretation, discovering ways to incorporate carving, texture, and dramatic interpretations into their designs. you will also have the opportunity to explore mixed-media finishing possibilities after firing, including the addition of feathers, fabric, beading, and other materials that can transform your sculpture into a truly unique artwork.
Demonstrations and discussions will include construction methods, structural support, drying strategies, firing considerations, and a variety of finishing techniques. This workshop will offer plenty of inspiration and individualized guidance.
What to bring: medium/firm toothbrush, pin tool, scoring tool (Xiem retractable preferred), wood smoothing/joining tools, cutting wire, and a small wooden paddle. Please also bring a crate or sturdy box for transporting your sculpture on its armature board (12” x 16”), or a slightly smaller piece of drywall (approximately 12” x 12”) if you plan to fire your work at home.
Sculptures will require approximately 3–4 weeks of drying time before bisque firing, depending on your studio environment. Detailed handouts with drying and firing schedules will be provided. Bring ample plastic, towels and tubs to transport your wall pieces. If you are flying we can have bisque firing options through TVPCC for an additional fee. We can also ship from our local UPS store.
Workshop Logistics:
- Demonstrations will begin every day at 10:00 a.m. Tina will work with students individually until 4:00 p.m. Additional open studio hours will be 5:00 p.m. on Sat.
- Students will purchase clay directly from The Village Potters Clay Center the week of the workshop, using exclusively Tina's chosen sculpture clay. Please note that the use of external clays is not permitted during the workshop.
- Students have the option to transport their greenware pieces home to be fired in their own studio, or have the work they make during the workshop bisque fired at The Village Potters Clay Center for an additional fee. Additional shipping and handling fees will also apply.
- Two weeks before the workshop you will receive the details of what to expect, what to bring, materials list, and directions to the studio.