Summer Section Available (8 Weeks):
Saturdays, July 12–August 30, 9 pm–12 pm with Joseph Van Buren and JT Hein, tuition $495
Levels/Ages: All levels welcome; ages 15+
Foundations of Academic Figure Sculpture
Are you a new student? Use the button below to create an account in our student portal. You will receive an email with a link and credentials to log in, complete your class registration, and make payment. Returning students log in to the student portal to register.
This course introduces the core principles and approach of academic figure sculpture. You will model 18-inch figures working from a live model. Each figure model pose will span six hours allowing students to develop their observational skills and sculptural understanding over two class sessions. Emphasis will be placed on gesture, structure, proportion, and the subtle emotional shifts that occur from pose to pose.
The course begins with a demonstration on preparing the armature and massing in the essential planes of the figure, after which you will apply these principles to your own work.
Instruction is led by artists Joseph Van Buren and JT Hein, who alternate weekly, providing individualized critiques and demonstrations. This dual approach offers a dynamic learning experience combining theoretical insight with hands-on practice.
Supplies: The clay and tools can be purchased at the Academy’s art store, de Gereneday’s Fine Art Materials and Curiosities, located on the Lyme Academy campus. Figure Sculpture Class Supply List
Terms: Please review our Terms, Conditions, and Policies prior to enrollment.
