U18: Try your hand at stone carving (14+)

For young people aged (14+), no experience required.

Create an animal or bird motif from limestone. In this fun hands-on class you will carve an image of an animal or bird onto a flat tablet of limestone 12 x 12 x 5cm, working over three one hour sessions on Tuesday evenings. You’ll use hand tools to carve a bold relief image using curving shapes, patterns and textures.

You are welcome to bring along a prepared design, sketches or pictures for inspiration. Simple images are best, with a bold, clear outline and no complicated parts. Amanda will discuss the suitability of these and help you to ensure they are practical for carving. For example, a dolphin or an owl would be great as they have smooth, clear shapes. A giant spider would be really difficult to finish in the time available due to all the thin, fiddly legs!

Please avoid overlapping shapes or cropped images. Patterns and design inspirations will be available for anyone who needs an idea.

This course does not include letter cutting or numbers.

Core Skills
• designing your relief
• using a flat chisel to set out your design
• making textures with a claw chisel
• using a riffler to smooth your design and add detail

Materials
Stone, tools, and safety equipment will be provided and are included in the cost.
Please bring an apron and wear old clothes and stout shoes which cover your toes and protect your feet.

Tutor
Amanda Randall

Dates
3 weeks from 23 January 2024
23, 30 January 6 February
OR
3 weeks from 20 February 2024
20, 27 February 5 March