Introducing the course ‘The art of portraiture is about looking, through observation we record form and detail’. The purpose of this course is not only to encourage complete beginners to get started, but also to teach those with previous experience in clay, a little more about the technical and observational nature of clay modeling, using a life model. I place great emphasis on individual tuition, on helping you to develop a creative and personal response to the model and to encourage you to develop your practical skills. I like to keep the class numbers to 6 people, so I can give you my complete attention.
Learn to model a head in clay directly from life in Anthony’s purpose built studio workshop. These classes are designed for complete beginners and for anyone with some experience to further develop your observational skills. Working in clay from life - captures the likeness and character of the model. Tuition is as a group and individually, which will help you understand and interpret what you see before you.
Course timetable - Session 1. General introduction to clay modelling, measuring from life, and the use of tools and equipment etc. Our aim is to establish the profile and mass. - Session 2. You will rough out the main forms of the head. Tea break talk – “The different approaches from working from life” - illustrated introduction talk, looking at the variety of responses from realistic representation to personal interpretation. Examples from Roman portraits to Rodin and Giacometti. - Session 3. Defining the profile and the main forms, measuring in the features. Tea break talk – “Material heads”, comparing modeling techniques within the working potential of clay. - Session 4. Continue modelling . . .Tea break talk “Feature heads”. Illustrated talk on the different approaches to depicting the facial features, from the stylised to the highly realistic. Examples include Rosso, Messerschmitt, Houdon and Marino Marini. - Session 5. Continue modelling. Talk: “Personality heads”. Expressive heads depicting the different aspects of the human condition, examples - Despeau, Steitz, Lehmbruck, Epstein and Picasso. - Session 6. The final definition of features. Talk on “Resolving the Portrait base and presentation”. - Session 7. Final definition and finishing touches. - Sessions 8 & 9. Hollowing out the head to an even thickness to be fired in the kiln. Talk with handout. - “Useful information on tools, materials, kilns, suppliers for modelling heads at home”.
The studio The fully equipped purpose built studio workshop has excellent light and space. All tools, materials and equipment are provided.
Tea break and talks Tea, coffee or herbal drinks at 8.00pm, including illustrated discussions on portrait sculpture during break times.
The tutor Anthony Griffiths BA Hons is a professional sculptor & qualified teacher. His portrait work can be seen in the Houses of Parliament, Southampton city centre & Melbourne, Australia.