The workshops can be extended on request on an individual basis, allowing for in depth continuation of the workshop before the next session begins. The instructor and assistant work with the students 9 to 12 and 1 to 5 weekdays, and from 9 to 12 on Saturday. The studio remains open daily until evening allowing students to continue working independently, including weekends, Weekends also offer the opportunity for individual excursions to the nearby marble quarries of Carrara, or to other cities such as Florence, Siena, Pisa and Lucca. Large and spacious, the ample indoor and outdoor workshops are fully equipped for all aspects of marble carving, both by hand and with pneumatic tools. Materials and Tools Students are provided with a moderate sized block of white statuary marble from Carrara, which is included in the cost of the workshop.
All necessary tools are available and are provided at no extra charge.
Safety, maintenance and correct use of all equipment, and safe procedures for moving stone are all explained and demonstrated. Accommodations Workshops take place in Valdicastello, a 1000 year old village on the outskirts of Pietrasanta. Accommodations provided by Artspace are available either in charming country cottages in a picturesque Tuscan olive grove, close to the studio space, or students may choose single or shared accommodations in apartments and houses in the Pietrasanta town center, a short 10 minute bus ride from the studio. Both the cottages and apartments are fully furnished and supplied with sheets, towels, and washing machine. Grocery stores, post office, cafes, restaurants, churches and a bus stop are all in easy walking distance.