Sculpture: Wood + Stone

With John Thompson

June 25 - July 1, 2023

Location: Grunewald Guild Barn

What will class time be like?: Class time will include instruction and personal project work time. John will help each student work through their project, especially as they consider what is possible to complete within 5 days.

Will I need to work outside of class?: Yes, all students should expect to spend a significant amount of time (3+ hours/day) working on their project outside of class in order to complete their project.

What can I expect to create?: Depending on their working speed, subject matter, size, and detail, each student can expect to finish a wood relief carving and possibly a small stone carving. Students will acquire enough working knowledge to allow them to finish their projects at home.

Do I need experience to take this class?: All experience levels welcome, including beginners.

What do I need to bring to class?: Sketchbook; pens/pencils; any favorite personal carving tools

Minimum age of participants: Ages 14 and up (parental consent required)

required deposit: $250

  • Commuter – $115.00
  • Cabin – $1,180.00
  • Shared Room + Shared Bath – $610.00
  • Yurt – $730.00
  • Library Dorm – $460.00
  • RV with Electric: 125V/30 Amp – $460.00
  • RV with Electric: 25V/20 Amp – $460.00
  • Personal Tent or Car Camping – $400.00
  • Hilltop House King Private Room + Private Bath – $1,120.00
  • Hilltop House Queen Private Room + Shared Bath – $1,060.00
  • Hilltop Private Room (Full + Two Twins) + Shared Bath – $1,000.00
  • Private Queen Room + Shared Bath – $940.00
  • Private Twin Room + Shared Bath – $940.00

Students will learn to carve with both stone and wood. Local soapstone and basswood will be provided (potentially some limestone and slate as well). We will be using mainly hand tools (think Michelangelo) with a few power tools under close supervision. Students will learn both relief carving (2 dimensional) and “carving in the round” (3 dimensional). This class can be dirty and dusty but that is what makes it fun!

Class time will include instruction and personal project work time. We will begin with a safety talk, demonstration, and tool talk. Participants will be encouraged to work with wood or stone or both if that is their choice.  This class is about skills building so that you can continue to carve anywhere!

About the Faculty

John Thompson

John received his degree in Fine Arts from the University of North Dakota, were intaglio (etching) and drawing were his foundations. Asked to design the ponies for the Carousel for Missoula, his work with the carousel became a transitional point into carving and sculpting. John is serious about art but his art is full of humor. […]

Learn more about John Thompson

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