Challenge Seven - Sculpt!

When we draw, we model objects on paper. Since the Renaissance, many artists have tried to create three-dimensional effects in a two-dimensional medium. Sculpting is no more difficult than drawing. In fact, it's much easier to achieve depth and perspective, since you have control of the object from all sides.

"Draw" something in clay!

Here are the recipes for inexpensive modeling materials from Challenge Five, but you can certainly do a web search for more options.


 * The Holiday Zone (several different recipes)
 * Flour and Salt modeling dough
 * One of my favorites is Sand and Cornstarch modeling dough

Materials

 * Clay or other modeling compound
 * Toothpicks or other dental instruments, wooden skewers, plastic cutlery, pretty much anything that will allow you to poke, prod, or slice safely

What To Do
Some sculptors like to sketch out what they are going to create before they begin. Others play with the material and see how they are inspired. Sometimes the medium itself suggests a particular type of sculpture (for example, sand dough makes great sandcastles and primitive-style figures). Experiment with different thicknesses, trading strength for fine details.

When you have an "accident," turn it to your advantage rather than worrying about what once was. You and your clay are working as a team. Be sure to let it have its say.

Why Do It?
There is a continuum from drawing to painting to sculpting. Many of the greatest artists did all three, working on several projects simultaneously. Creating in different media with different styles gives insights to other forms. You will discover techniques while drawing that you can modify and apply to sculpting, and vice-versa. The more forms you try, the more likely you'll find something that will excite you and keep you coming back for more. The way to build skill as an artist is to create art. If you have fun doing it, you'll do it that much more, and that's how any artist becomes a great artist.