Introduction to Figurative Sculpture

You will learn

This course focuses on techniques used to sculpt expressive faces from clay.

Starting with the pottery basics, you will learn how to observe facial features and sculpt them in clay. After having a go at forming individual features, you will have the opportunity to express your unique artistic voice by creating a figurative bust, bringing it to life with texture and colour.

Techniques covered include:

Wedging clay
Slab and pinch building
Using underglazes and oxides
Adding texture
Observing from life

You will need

This is an adult session, perfect for complete beginners, or those who have attended any of our other introductory courses. You must be aged 14+ to attend, all under 18’s must be accompanied by a paying adult.

We recommend trimming long nails prior to the session, removing any jewellery, and tying back long hair.

Additional information

This pottery course takes place over 6 consecutive weeks starting on your booked date.

Sessions take place on Friday mornings 10am – 12.30pm.

The course cost includes all materials, tools and clay, plus glazing and firing of your finished pieces.

Tutor Profile: Ruth Waller

Ruth is half of the creative partnership Waller Hewett. Waller Hewett create artwork and installations which combine art, design and craft, and have won them numerous awards including ‘Best in Show’ at the London Craft Fair.

She is a highly experienced tutor and teaches across the Harley Foundation’s education programme.

Image courtesy Samuel Binstead

Booking Information

When attending this event, please drive directly to The Harley Studios. See the map below for directions.

The Harley Pottery Studio

The Harley Foundation is an arts charity which works to create spaces where the imagination can flourish, from artists studios to an award-winning museum.

We run The Harley Pottery Studio, a community space where visitors can work in inspiring surroundings – in an idyllic countryside location and surrounded by practicing artists and makers.

All of our classes are subsidised by the Foundation. We work to offer an accessible, affordable place to practice pottery making.