Shaping Grace

Transform reclaimed materials

Discover an unexpected form of sculpture as you transform wire, reclaimed fabric and found decorative elements into a graceful sculpture.

During this immersive one-day workshop, sculptor Chantal Koot will guide you through the process of creating a figure of your own imagination from the inside out. You will begin by constructing and positioning a stable armature, then build form and movement through layers of fabric hardened with Paverpol.

You'll create

As your figure takes shape, you will explore how posture, gesture and the fall of draped fabric can express character, strength and movement. Texture, colour and found decorative elements will add individuality and detail to your finished piece.

By the end of the day, you will have created an expressive statuette 12 to 18 inches tall and discovered how reclaimed materials can take on beauty, substance and enduring presence.

Is this workshop for me?

No previous sculpting experience is required. Chantal will demonstrate and explain each stage in both English and French, giving you the guidance and time needed to work with confidence. Although everyone will begin with the same fundamental process, your choices of pose, fabric, texture and embellishment will make the resulting figure unmistakably yours.

You'll learn to:

• Construct and position a stable wire armature
• Build volume and shape the figure
• Prepare and apply fabric using Paverpol textile hardener
• Create movement through posture, draping and folds
• Incorporate texture and decorative found objects
• Colour and finish your sculpture.

Included

• All materials and use of the tools needed to create your sculpture
  Refreshments throughout the day

What to bring

A sturdy box or suitable container in which to transport your sculpture home. An approximately 12x12" box or a a bit bigger should suffice.

You are welcome to bring a base, charm, ornament, piece of jewellery or other meaningful element to incorporate into your sculpture if you want to.

If you would like to use your own fabric, choose natural fibres such as cotton, linen, wool or silk. Used, stained or torn fabric is ideal. Manufactured fabrics or fabrics containing manufactured fibres like nylon, polyester, or viscose are not suitable. Please pre-wash contributed fabric without fabric softener, as any remaining softener may prevent the Paverpol from being absorbed and keep your sculpture from hardening fully.

Dress for the mess

Wear old clothing and shoes that you won’t mind getting dirty.

About Chantal Koot

Chantal Koot is a sculptor whose expressive figurative work celebrates character, imagination and the tactile pleasure of making. Working with reclaimed textiles and Paverpol, she transforms humble materials into sculptural forms rich in gesture, texture and personality.

Cancellations/Refunds

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