Life Sculpting Workshop (WHH)
Course overview
Discover the art of creating an expressive ceramic portrait bust in this intensive 2-day workshop—led by acclaimed sculptor Si Sapsford. This course offers adult learners of all abilities the opportunity to develop their observational skills and technical abilities while working directly from a professional life model.
The workshop runs from 10am to 3pm on both days, with the life model available for two dedicated hours each day. This carefully structured format allows you to observe, create, and refine your bust sculpture with Si’s expert guidance throughout. This course offers a perfect blend of technical instruction and creative exploration in a supportive environment.
- Fundamental proportions — Master the key measurements and relationships in the human head and shoulders
- Anatomical structure — Understand the underlying forms that create distinctive facial features
- Clay building techniques — Learn methods for creating stable, hollow ceramic forms
- Capturing likeness — Develop skills to translate what you see into a convincing three-dimensional form
- Character and expression — Move beyond mere reproduction to capture the essence of your subject
- Texturing and finishing — Explore surface treatments that enhance your sculptural work
- Technical considerations — Address specific challenges of creating ceramic portrait busts
Our teaching approach combines demonstration, hands-on practice, and individualised instruction:
- Structured observation — Learn to see and analyse the model’s features systematically
- Guided demonstrations — Your instructor will demonstrate key techniques at crucial stages
- Direct observation — Work from the life model during dedicated two-hour sessions each day
- One-to-one guidance — Receive personalised feedback tailored to your skill level and goals
- Peer learning — Benefit from group discussions and observing different approaches
- Progressive development — Build skills systematically from basic form-finding to refined details
- Our small class size ensures ample individual attention while fostering a collaborative atmosphere where questions are encouraged and creativity thrives.
All essential materials are provided, including professional-grade clay and basic tools.
Please bring:
- Comfortable, practical clothing that you don’t mind getting clay on
- An apron (we have some available if needed)
- A hand towel
- Your own sculpting tools, if you have them (optional)
- A sketchbook for notes and preliminary drawings
- Lunch and refreshments
- An open mind and creative spirit!
Your completed sculpture will be fired to stoneware and available to collect approximately 3 weeks after the course.
Sign up for our 8-week Life Sculpting in Clay course – further details to follow!
Meet the tutors
We want our learners to feel welcome, safe and at ease when attending our classes, especially if this is your first time attending an adult education class or if you're coming back to education after a break.
If you're interested in one of courses, meet our tutors first! You'll see they have similar passions and interests and, most importantly, the right qualifications to help you make the most of your time and money.
