Techniques in various sculptural media are explored and developed. Students work towards an understanding of space, line, form and mass through completion of projects, analysis of professional work, and group and individual critiques of projects.

GOALS AND OBJECTIVES

By executing the projects, participating in discussions and following instruction and criticism, students should gain awareness and comprehension of the techniques, tools, approach and discipline of the sculptor. As the course progresses, students are encouraged to perceive and develop their personal artistic vision and to explore the means to produce from that vision.

REQUIRED READINGS AND MATERIALS

READINGS:
The Sculptural Idea, by James J. Kelly
Sculpture as Experience, by Judith Peck
Excerpts of publications as announced in class.

MATERIALS: The cost for expendable materials used for projects and not available in class is approximately $20.00. Tools and equipment are supplied.

COURSE CONTENT

Techniques in sculptural media:
Foam core or cardboard: abstract constructions involving shape relationships
Mixed media: sculpture in relief with focus on 3-dimensional design
Clay: free form modeling
Clay: figures sketches
Wax: sheet construction, heat welding; hand forming
Plaster: carving poured forms
Cast stone: carving poured forms
Note: students select only one carving medium.
Found objects: construction
Wire: forming and mounting
Modeling the head in clay

  COURSE REQUIREMENTS

1. Completion of projects in each media, demonstrated and begun in class.

2. Delivery of an oral report on a contemporary sculptor's work. Alternatively, a technical demonstration of a sculpture technique not covered in class can be presented. Dates for each student's oral report are designated in advance; topics must be approved by the instructor.

Evaluation of the oral report considers:

• The extent and depth of research.
• The logic and coherence of organization.
• The effectiveness of presentation in generating interest in the art and artist. Pictorial representations are required; these can be in the form of slides, book illustrations, transparencies, Xerox copies or power point presentations.

• a description of the sculpture, including artist, where seen, size, media, form, etc.;
• a critical study of the piece using visual arts terminology;
• your own evaluation, e.g., why you like it or dislike it.

5. A short quiz on material contained in the two required texts.

EVALUATION

In evaluation, double counting is given to:

• the oral report
• the critique of three works
• the modeled head
• the carving
• the large sculpture

Class participation is evaluated for these components: attendance, timely submission of weekly projects and the quiz.
Note: Consistent and on-time attendance is expected as the class meets only once a week in a double class session and much material is covered in a relatively short period of time.
Students with documented disabilities should see the instructor to make appropriate arrangements.