As a long time maker of functional ware (both on the wheel and hand-built), I've often admired sculptural pieces made from clay. This comprehensive, step-by-step guide demystifies the process and demonstrates how the same tools and skills are used to create figures in clay. Although I may never build the full figure demonstrated in this book, it has inspired me to use more sculptural elements in my work. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this title.

I enjoyed all the photos in this book. I am not a sculptor, so some parts of the book didn't interest me. I was interested in this book because I love figure drawing and knew this would provide me some insight.
Many of my art instructors talk about painting like a sculptor. It was helpful for me to read about a sculptor's process to use that to improve my painting.

This is a fabulous book of Sculpting in clay - it gives very good information on both the figure and working with clay. As well there are patterns at the end of the book to help get shapes.
Working with clay is not as easy as it may seem, there is the problem of thickness and hardness of clay whilst retaining a fluid figure shape which is hollow. And building on it without any cave- ins or slumps.
This is very well explained and a great find. Suitable for both beginners and experienced sculptors, its a fabulous book especially with live models to explain proportions.

A step by step introduction to the figurative sculptural process. Mastering Sculpture breaks down the sculptural process in a a series of steps that even the newly initiated can follow and understand, Interviews with international sculptural artists also make this a valuable resource.

Mastering Sculpture: The figure in Clay is a step by step tutorial and reference book for clay artists and sculptors looking to improve or begin working with the human form. It takes a complete breakdown approach to each part of the body with step by step instructions. There are tips, tricks, and all step by step instructions are fully illustrated. The photographs are excellent and clearly detail the instructions. A brilliant book for those just getting started and also for artists with experience who just want to improve.

The perfect book for sculpture enthusiasts. Includes direction for beginners on how to sculpt a body, head, and hands. Templates included!

I’m always full of trepidation when starting on a sculpture project, in fact the whole process is unbelievably painful for me.
I really liked this book, its methodical (body part by body part) approach down to patterns for body parts, tips for armature and scaling up.
Excellent images including some jaw-dropping examples of “how to do it properly”.
Will attempt to follow the instructions to create a two-foot human figure.
Already on my Xmas wishlist!