Introduction to Sculpture: The Torso

An exciting opportunity to explore the compelling nature of the human figure in three-dimensional form. Taught by sculptor Gianluca Giarrizzo—recipient of ABC Stone’s Stone Carving Residency in Carrara, Italy—sculpture is made approachable while creating a human torso out of clay, using traditional methods in this 6-week virtual course.

Students will be guided through the process from start to finish, and will learn the basics of anatomical terms and proportions, architectonic structure, gestural and finishing techniques, and simplified compositional relationships.There will be discussions of the basic sculpture tools and approaches to clay modeling, demonstrations, and group and individual critiques. Lecture on examples throughout history will be included to help solidify your comfort and ability to sculpt the human torso. Students will work from provided reference photos of historical and master works to develop their own sculpted torso.

Here are the supplies necessary:

Gianluca Giarrizzo - Intro. to Sculpture: The Torso

• 9” Wire End Modeling Tool #222
• 8” Hardwood Clay Tool #265 
• Formica board
• Four 2lb Blocks Oil-Based Clay (8 lbs total, Chavant - Le Beau Touche)

Students will need to purchase their own materials for this course.

Students that already own specific items in the kits may choose to purchase the remaining items they need individually.