Mastering Sculpture: The Figure in Clay

A Guide to Capturing the Human Form for Ceramic Artists

by Cristina Córdova

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Pub Date Jun 14 2022 | Archive Date Jul 05 2022

Quarto Publishing Group – Quarry | Quarry Books

Arts & Photography | Crafts & Hobbies

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Description

Explore the human form in depth, from concept sketches and armatures to detailed instructions for constructing legs, torso, arms, hands, and head from clay.

In Mastering Sculpture: The Figure in Clay, renowned sculptor and instructorCristina Córdova teaches everything you need to know to replicate the full human figure using clay.

Start by developing meaningful sketches and reference points.
Then learn how to make and use an armature to create hollow forms that are safe to fire in a kiln.
Using patterns and slabs, you can move on to develop a full human form, head to toe.
Work along with the author to create a form about two-feet tall, or choose your own size: the patterns and instructions can work in a variety of scales.

Photographic demonstrations and diagrams cover the construction and articulation of feet and legs, the hip area and upper torso, arms, hands, neck, and head. Cristina includes supplementary tips and insights throughout to support the sculpting process and enhance naturalism. You’ll also find a brief section on general anatomical concepts and modeling strategies to facilitate accuracy and expression as all the components come together.

Whether you are a clay artist with limited experience in figurative sculpture or a figurative sculptor outside the world of ceramics looking for a straightforward fabrication strategy to create permanent compositions from clay, Mastering Sculpture: The Figure in Clay will expertly guide your way.

Available Editions

EDITION	Other Format
ISBN	9780760373095
PRICE	$35.00 (USD)
PAGES	192

Additional Information

Average rating from 7 members

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Featured Reviews

Anne M, Reviewer

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!

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Samantha H, Reviewer

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

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jc C, Educator

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.