Course Outline

Learn everything there is to know about welded steel sculpture in a technical, historic and aesthetic sense. Paul Hopmeier instructs you in the safe use of oxy acetylene, arc (manual metal arc) and MIG (metal inert gas) welding techniques, and demonstrates complex methods for joining, cutting, shaping, grinding and bending steel to produce successful sculptures.

*Short courses are open to students of ages 16 years and over. For students under 16 years of age there are School Holiday Workshops, Art Club and other youth art programs.

Mild steel

Bring an assortment of pieces of mild steel for making your sculptures. Mild steel is the most common metal around us and is the kind that rusts easily of left exposed to the weather. You will be working with mild steel only and need to bring in an assortment of pieces with you. The sculpture department has a small supply of mild steel for demonstration.

You can find off-cuts and refuse from the engineering, manufacturing and building industries. It is available from smaller scrap metal yards, industrial bins (with permission) and rural properties. Machine or car parts containing grease or plastic and heavily painted pieces give off toxic fumes when burnt so are best avoided.

Lecturer profile

Jim Croke has been making and exhibiting sculpture for over 40 years. He has held numerous solo exhibitions with May Space and has participated in many group shows. Some years after graduating from the National Art School, Jim undertook postgraduate study at the University of Sydney and UNSW. He has been teaching at the National Art School for 25 years and was Head of Sculpture for seven years.

Note: course fee is higher due to safety considerations and reduced student numbers.

ART MATERIALS AND PERSONAL PROTECTION

A4 sketchbook or visual diary and drawing media such as pencils/pens
2 x P2 grade disposable dust masks, purchased from hardware stores
Box of disposable gloves
Riggers Gloves are compulsory. Students must purchase their own gloves for this course due to Covid-19 Health Regulations. They are between $10-15 a pair and can be found at hardwarde stores. Here is a link to Bunnings range of gloves, or Weld Guard Premium Welding Gauntlet, $16.00 from BOC.
The Sculpture Department will provide basic personal protection such as earplugs or muffs, helmets and face guards which will be sanitised before and after use. Your lecturer will discuss the specific Work Health & Safety (WHS) obligations of welding in the first class.

COVID-19 Policy

Whilst NAS strongly encourages vaccination, students are not required to be vaccinated as a condition of their enrolment at NAS.

You must wear covered footwear. Sturdy leather or steel capped shoes will best protect your feet. Protective clothing such as old long sleeve shirt and long pants are ideal. Avoid light, flammable and synthetic materials.