Using clay, metal, plastic, wood, plaster, found objects, etc., students work in three dimensions by carving, casting, modeling, and assembling. Course Components Studio Work Students work through the process of visual thinking and problem solving in a variety of studio based experiences. The skills to use these resources are embedded in the work of the Sculpture class. Students develop an understanding of sculptural materials and skills through work in a variety of media. By exploring a variety of sculptural techniques such as assemblage, casting, carving, and modeling, students are better able to understand the possibilities of using three dimensional form to create their own personal imagery.
Drawing is used throughout the semester for preliminary idea sketches and studies for works.
An understanding of technique is developed through short term exercises and longer assignments. After studying and discussing ways other artists have used these processes, students experiment with a variety of media, incorporating learned skills through application. Students learn about the visual thinking process through regular sketchbook assignments, and larger scale work in class, in which they may explore composition, communication, and other design problems. Sketchbooks also serve as visual and verbal journals, in which students make record of their experiences, observations, responses to readings, and other information which they may draw upon in developing their own approach to sculpture as a means of personal expression. Not all work in class is expected to be finished and polished, but may be a means to further development of an idea, or understanding of technique.