In this one day course we explore abstract sculpture through clay preparation, surface texture techniques using alternative tools. Building abstract composition through clay collage and building ceramic maquettes/ small scale sculptures to inform future builds. The aim will be to build small scale abstract sculptural forms as you explore possibilities. 

Morning Session:  

Brief introduction - my way of working, what and who inspires me and what informs my techniques. Being open to play, constantly planting ‘seeds’ of ideas. Include ref to William Kentridge Paper Maquettes, using collage techniques to break form, and the beauty of working small scale to inform possibilities without the limitation of scale. 

First demo - Inspiration to form, taking images of what inspires you and quick ways of visualizing form through paper collage 2D and 3D. Also, time for participants to explore this (quick 30 minute exercise) 

Second demo - Translating inspiration into texture, exploring both clay and ‘tools’, how you prep your clay, alternative techniques to rolling out your clay, how you manipulate surface through textural play, adding slip, stretching clay to add further depth, turning reclaim into texture. Participants will spend the morning exploring texture, creative small tiles and strips for use in their afternoon builds 

Afternoon Session: 

3rd Demo - Taking texture techniques from the morning and translating into small scale forms, building free form, I will demo 2/3 small builds including wet brush and score joining, using props and formers. Finishing edges and then the participants will explore their own builds with my support.