In this course you will explore the possibilities and limitations of clay: terracotta/white/crank/mixed body. You will do this through a variety of structured exercises based on direct observation from the life model. These will incorporate timed work (short poses), constructing/building in clay, anatomical studies (hands & feet) and working on longer poses over a period of weeks. You will gain a basic understanding of how to render proportion and will learn how to apply perspective. We will look at the revealing effects of light on surface texture (form) and how to convey a sense of movement, tension and emotional depth in the clay figure. You will learn through the process of making a series of clay studies; each encounter with the work you make and your subject of study will challenge you in a different way. Using the learning resources in the School, and with group visits, we will look at a broad range of figure sculptures made from early civilisation up to the present day. This will help to give an art - historical context to work made in the studio sessions. Along with occasional taught drawing activities, students will be encouraged to develop a more personal and sustained drawing practice that examines relationships between sculpture, 'mark- making' and a haptic response. Keeping a sketchbook journal (A5/A4) is integral to this course as a means to document 3D discoveries made in class (notes and images) and as an ongoing resource for potential future exploration that might include visits to galleries and museums, media images and the recording of significant everyday life events and thoughts. There will be tutor demonstrations and individual guidance.