Clay Modeling

 

This assignment will allow you to add and subtract, as well as model the material in the process of creating new form. We will be individually creating the head/bust of a mythological, science fiction or fantasy character. You have the choice of using pictures of a character that some other artist has already created or sketching your own images to use as references to sculpt from. After first sketching your idea, you will create an armature (sculptural skeleton) using paper, wire and blocks of wood. You will then add plastilene clay to this armature to model the form. A major concept of this assignment is the understanding that a “good ” sculptural form has no front or back. In other words, it should be dynamic and interesting from all angles. This understanding can be difficult when the subject of the sculpture has a face. You will need to pay equal attention to all sides/angles of the head, not just the face.

The resulting clay sculpture will then be used in the next assignment which will be to make a mold of this piece and cast it in plaster.

You can use brush a small amount of lighter fluid over the surface of the clay to smooth out irregularities or small rough spots as a finishing touch. You can also use lighter fluid to help you clean out small bits of clay from a plaster casting of your sculpture.

Everyone be sure upload 2 photographs of your finished sculpture to the Canvas assignment page. Remember to add your name to your files.

If necessary, you can make arrangements to photograph the sculpture here in the Department photography studio. If you choose to photograph it at home instead, place a large white, gray or black paper or cloth behind it to block out all distracting background images and objects.

To upload your files to Canvas:

  1. Open Assignments. In Course Navigation, click the Assignments link.

  2. Select Assignment. Click the title of the assignment.

  3. Submit Assignment. Click the Submit Assignment button.

  4. Add File. …

  5. Add Another File. …

  6. Submit Assignment. …

  7. View Submission.

You will need to return all tools, turntables and clay by the end of the semester.

Artists:

Building the Armature: