After being asked to teach at Chatham Hall as head of the art department, and holding that position for 10 years, I came to realize that I really enjoyed teaching and meanwhile met some interesting new friends. I started an information notebook for my own use, “From Clay to Bronze”, and realized that it would be a handy manual for my sculpture students. I still use copies of the manual in my workshops. Several sculpture topics can be taught, but at any given group or class I would like to start with sculpting the head in clay, just to get familiar with the students and their experience.
A few things to keep in mind:
- A live model is required.
- During the workshop, I will not make my own sculpture, but demonstrate on different students' work, in order to give maximum attention to each student.
- The size of the room needs to be approximately 25 by 25 feet for approximately 12 students maximum. It must have a hard floor, a sink and sculpture stands (or tables and chairs). I will provide the armatures.
- My fee for the workshop is $1,200 plus travel and a room for the duration of the workshop, which is 5 classes of 3 hours (e.g., Monday through Friday, 9–12, or Monday through Wednesday, 9–12 and 2–5).
- You will provide clay, but I can help you choose the right type.
- Tools will be minimal and can be purchased from me by the students. The cost will be roughly $15.
- I can provide stands if needed. If this is a first time around, lazy-Susans can be provided, which can be elevated by a wooden crate to a comfortable working height.
- The firing of the sculptures can be done approximately one month after the workshop. The students will be instructed how to handle the sculpture during that month and how to fasten the sculpture to a base.
- Usually a “Show & Tell” session will be arranged a few months after the workshop to “critique” the finished sculptures. This first workshop can lead to a series of follow-up workshops focusing on different materials or techniques.