Drawing with Wire: Sculpture Workshop

Create wire portraits at this sculpture course in Sydney

Some say drawing is simply “taking a line for a walk”… But what if we take that line right off the page to create striking, shadow casting sculpture?

Join this workshop to learn continuous line sketching techniques to capture the essential features of a face, animal or other object. We will then explore how a continuous line design can be replicated in wire to become a three-dimensional sculpture... a “drawing” with physical presence and form, casting intriguing shadows.

Ideal for

This course is suitable for absolute beginners, as well as students with some drawing experience who want to explore new techniques.

Course content

• Continuous line sketching exercises
• An inspiring look at the work of wire artists such as Elizabeth Berrien, Alexander Calder and Celia Smith
• Tools, safety and structural issues for working with wire
• Basic techniques for shaping, twisting and securing wire
• Adapting your line design to 3D
• Finishing techniques – for wall hanging or mounting onto a base

Learning outcomes

By the end of this workshop you will have learned:

• how to capture a subject’s essential detail in a continuous line
• how to reproduce a continuous line design in wire
• an understanding of sculptural form and adding multiple planes
• how to select the best wire and gauge for your project
• wire joining and finishing techniques
• how to mount or hang your sculpture for display

Materials provided

All tools, safety equipment, wire and mounting blocks are provided.

Please come prepared:

• Closed shoes must be worn
• Tie long hair back
• Wear comfortable clothing that can get messy 
• Consider how you will transport your work home
• There will be a short lunch break, so please bring lunch/snacks