In this course you will learn fundamental welding skills and complete small-scale welded steel sculptures. Lisa Jones demonstrates techniques using MIG welders and oxyacetylene to cut, shape and bend steel, as well as ways to grind steel and use surface treatments suited to steel. Lisa is also able to demonstrate additional techniques, such as arc welding, upon student request depending on the needs of their projects. She discusses the aesthetics of form and space and introduces students to sculptors who have made significant contributions to the field.

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

* Please note: There are two course breaks in Term Two due to public holidays. There will be NO class on: Saturday 25 April and Saturday 6 June.

* Welding Sculptures is suitable for students aged 18 years and over.  

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

Students must supply their own art materials, please refer to the list below.

Mild steel (not galvanised or stainless 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 if 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. 

Other materials 

• A4 sketchbook or visual diary and drawing media such as pencils/pens (optional)
• Riggers Gloves are compulsory  

Students must purchase their own gloves for this course. They are between $10-15 a pair and can be found at hardware 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. Your lecturer will discuss the specific Work Health & Safety (WHS) obligations of welding in the first class. 

All students are required to wear protective clothing and footwear: 

• Long sleeve cotton shirt (no tears or open neck) 
• Long pants - denim jeans are ideal (no tears or holes) 
• No synthetic clothing 
• Covered leather shoes - boots are ideal