Summer 2024
July 22-26

In this five-day class we will use both traditional and experimental carving techniques to create handheld sculptures that blur the line between functional objects and abstract works of art. By integrating the processes of spoon carving, expressive drawing, and power carving, students will leave the class not only with a robust carving skillset, but also an expanded view of what is possible at the intersection of traditional craft, art, and design.

In this five-day class we will explore the vast technical possibilities of woodcarving as a means to challenge preconceived boundaries between art, craft, and design. In doing so, each student will develop their own personal creative vision outside of these parameters, and establish a diverse set of carving skills to bring these visions to reality in wood.

To achieve this, we will begin by carving a simple spoon, a process that will act as a launching point for both our approach to carving technique as well as an initial exploration of form and function. We will then incorporate these spoons into a series of abstract drawing exercises aimed to unlock each student's unique creative voice. Through these drawings, discussions, and experimentations, each student will develop their own design for a handheld sculptural object.

To bring these ideas to life, we will expand the techniques used during our spoon carving exercise to incorporate power carving tools such as angle grinders, die grinders, and Dremels, as well as power sanding and other shaping and polishing processes. Finally, we will cover several finishing techniques such as bleaching, ebonizing, and oiling. The result will be a series of interactive, abstract sculptures that not only challenge our preconceptions about art and craft, but push our technical understanding of wood carving into new and exciting territories.

Tools

Required:

• Safety goggles (not glasses)

• Dust Mask - N95 or respirator

• Ear plugs or ear protection

• Fitted work gloves

Recommended:

• Any carving tools such as gouges, knives, rasps, etc.

• Any power carving tools such as angle grinders, die grinders, dremels, etc.

• Any wood to be used for the final project (there will be wood available for sale)

• Any meaningful handheld objects that hold inspiration (i.e. old tools/utensils, natural forms such as sticks, feathers, shells, etc.)

Prerequisites

Open to all. Each student will develop their own project, enabling flexibility for all skill levels.

Course Information and Registration

Class runs from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday in Building 315 at Fort Worden. Map
Please read our What to Expect page for general information about the school.
Please also read our Registration Policy.
Sign up for the waitlist if the course is full.

Class size: 10
Cost: $895
Materials Charge: $75