Portrait Sculpture Course in Clay

Learn a unique way of sculpting heads in clay at this four day sculpture course in Devon.



4 x 7 hours

Class size 1 to 8 (public classes), 1 to 10
  £575 (PayPal Pay in 3 available)
South West Activities
Join me for this four-day portrait sculpture course in South Brent, Devon, and discover a unique way to model heads in clay. This activity is for beginners wanting to gain a clear method and for intermediate to advanced artists looking to hone their skills.
Over 40 years, I have developed the 'points-in-space' method, which I even use to train plastic surgeons. It’s an approach I distilled from observation, research, and the words of master sculptors, and it is designed to get accurate results, quickly. In this workshop, you will learn how to model with confidence, accuracy, and ease. I run these courses to share this method with you, saving you hundreds of hours of trial and error so you can create your own exciting works of art.
Working directly from a model, you will learn perception and anatomy-based skills. My points-in-space method will heighten your perception and help you capture the essential geometry of your subject, ensuring every addition of clay has meaning and purpose. This is a practical, hands-on course where you will be guided and shown exactly how to apply techniques to get results.
Beginners will gain a systematic approach they can trust, while those who already sculpt will see a significant development in their work. The group is small, so tuition is both group-orientated and tailored to your individual needs.
You will learn five key measuring methods:
  • How to identify points in space
  • Starting correctly with two accurate points
  • The 'Bar-Code' method for accurate measuring
  • The 'Cross-Calliper' method for pinpointing relationships of points in space
  • The 'Right-Angle' method for detailed accuracy
  • The correct use of viewing contour and volume
We will also cover the seven stages of modelling over seven studio sessions. Just like building a house from the foundation upwards, each session will give you one key focus, which answers the common question of what to work on next and brings clarity to the entire process.
You'll leave with a new-found confidence and a secure approach that works every time, a powerful change that will serve you well in all your future creative projects.
What you'll get
  • All materials.
  • The firing of the clay.
  • Handouts and course notes.
  • Refreshments throughout the day are included.
Knowledge required
Beginners will gain a systematic approach they can trust, standing them in good stead for the future.
Those who sculpt already will see a shift in their understanding and a development in their work and style.
What to bring
I have tools you can use and can supply all materials.
Session repeats

This class series runs over 4 consecutive days.

Location

Art House South Brent, Totnes Road, South Brent

Portrait Sculpture Course in Clay location
Your teacher

Luke Shepherd
Luke Shepherd


I approach things with curiosity. Especially what I see.
Although I went to Art School, I'm a tad too traditional (but not stuffy or classical) in my approach and I had to teach myself the skills I wanted to learn.
I spent 2 whole years in the life room at Cardiff Art School with the same model. Eventually my work became life-like. Now in 4-days complete beginners make better heads than I managed in 2 years! That's because I have developed a systematic approach that I love sharing and seeing the results.
It's a funny job being a portrait sculptor. I meet celebrities, actors, comedians, politicians and of course everyday people. They all have something interesting to capture.
My bronze sculpture is all over the world in each continent in museums, universities and private collections.
I teach a small number of short courses each year as I know how hard it is to get good instruction and I want to keep the tradition of figurative sculpture alive. I love teaching, meeting new people and encouraging their learning.
The same week I started sculpture (over 40 years ago) I also started learning tai chi.
Now I also teach a few tai chi classes each week and in between if there's time, bash out some loud chords on my electric guitar. Pure therapy!
The nice thing about being an artist is you don't have to conform!

Gift this artisan class

With our gift card, they can book this class at a time that suits them.

They can also choose from our 15,000+ other classes.

redeem Gifting options

Book on ClassBento and enjoy exclusive perks:


  • Earn loyalty points
  • Money-back guarantee* for peace of mind
  • Local support from our UK-based team, rated 5 stars by customers
  • Public liability insurance included for your protection
  • ClassBento donates 50p to Mental Health UK with every paid booking
class 1E57MXLBSX b30fa37a8c654059964d2a78c24cea95 production london London South West GB london