Carving Gargoyles and Faces: Wood and Stone Sundays

About this course

Participants develop an individual gargoyle or face project, beginning with ideas and clay models before transferring them to wood or stone. Demonstrations introduce chisel use, carving techniques and workshop health and safety, while practical work is supported through discussion, one-to-one guidance and group feedback. The course examines how gargoyles have been used historically and explores the construction of eyes, noses, ears and whole faces through carving and modelling. Visual examples of other artists’ work are also considered.

What you'll learn

• Explain how gargoyles have been used historically.
• Develop clay ideas and models as preparation for carving.
• Use chisels and apply carving techniques to wood or stone.
• Carve and model eyes, noses, ears and whole faces.
• Follow health and safety practices for stone and wood carving in a sculpture workshop.

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to beginners and learners with some previous experience. Its all-levels format combines demonstrations and practical individual project work with one-to-one and group guidance, so participants work on their own carving while receiving support.

• Beginners receive practical guidance on using chisels.
• Participants develop an individual project rather than working only through set exercises.
• The course involves carving in either wood or stone.

Before you go

• Basic materials are included.
• A pencil and notebook or sketchbook may be useful.
• Participants should wear stout closed-in shoes and protective clothing or a work apron.