Learn the art of clay modelling and create a life-size portrait bust that captures both likeness and character. Discover the techniques and principles of working with clay, exploring its plastic properties to sculpt a 1:1 scale portrait. Under the guidance of David Horton, you'll learn about various tools, methods, and observational techniques necessary for accurately representing the subject in the studio.

The course begins with an introduction to the skeletal structure of the head, providing a foundation for the main project: sculpting a portrait likeness of the model. David will teach you essential measuring skills, including the use of callipers, contour templates, vertical and horizontal referencing, angle referencing, and close observation. These techniques will help you accurately capture the model's character in your sculpture.

You’ll learn how to apply clay to the armature, establish the overall proportional structure of the bust, and follow detailed demonstrations on sculpting specific features like lips, nose, ears, eyes, and hair. David offers group and individual critiques, using in-the-round analysis of both the model and the sculptures to help you refine your work.

Students are encouraged to apply their newfound skills to future drawings or paintings. Selected sculptures will be fired, allowing students to keep their finished works.

* The course fee incorporates the cost for materials such as clay.

* NAS Short Courses are open to students of ages 16 years and over. The NAS Art Club is open to students from ages 15 years and over. 

* What to bring? Please refer to the list of required materials in the Art Materials field below. 

NAS provides all clay and equipment required for this course. Students are welcome to bring any clay modelling tools they already own.

Enclosed footwear is essential in all studios on campus.