24A-2027 – James Ort – Wild Animals

On this five-day sculpture workshop James Ort will teach you how to create ceramic animals. We will use a contemporary technique that is loose, expressive, breaks all the rules and brings your pieces to life!  The technique is fast, easy to learn and gives you creations some energy.

Techniques taught

There is so much breath-taking beauty in the animal kingdom. It took millions of years of evolution to shape the forms, physiology and behaviour of wild animals for them to become perfectly adapted to their habitats. It is little wonder why mankind feels compelled to capture the beauty of the natural world in art. Yet, recreating animals in clay can all too often feel clumsy and lacking in grace, poise and life.
The main technique of Wild Animals that you will learn is how to build clay forms with the help of newspaper armature. Participants can make pretty much whatever animals they like, except for birds, as they require need more time, tools and materials. First, to understand the method, we will begin by making wall mounted animal portrait heads. Afterwards, over the course of the week we advance to more complex four-legged standing animals and wall mounted dynamic poses.  These pieces require more complex armatures and expertise. Once finished, we will bisque fire our sculptures. We conclude the workshop finishes by bringing color and life to our pieces using underglazes.

Teaching method

James Ort will hold a series of demonstrations throughout the course. These show participants the key stages and principles of the technique. Afterwards, students focus on making their own pieces with James’ guidance and support every step of the way. We will pay attention to capturing the animal’s form – looking at proportions, anatomy and attitude. James’ lighthearted and attentive approach provides a welcoming and supportive studio atmosphere that gets the best out of his students.

Logistics

Students arrive on Sunday 13 and departure will be on Saturday 19, June 2027.
On all working days two coffee breaks and a freshly prepared lunch are provided by La Meridiana.
At booking, you may select your preferred room type, choosing between: standard lodging, single or shared room;  upgraded accommodation; private apartment. Please note that depending on the availability, certain types at times may not be offered.
Please note that the last kiln opening takes place on Saturday morning. Please plan your departure no earlier than 9:30 am. The work made during the course will is fired before departure. We can assist with arranging shipment through a professional shipping company.

The artist

James Ort is a wildlife artist. Creating ceramics is his main love, but he also makes art using wire, mixed media, painting, and drawing. He discovered sculpture when he became manager of the Phoenix Studio – an art school in Oxfordshire. With a lifelong fascination with wildlife and a former career in conservation, James uses his understanding of anatomy and form to push ceramics to its limits. He regularly teaches sculpture and is passionate about using his art to benefit others – be it wildlife or mankind. James is very much inspired and influenced by his nature loving Grandfather, Brian Price Thomas who illustrated several of the Ladybird Children Books. Instagram:@james.ort  www.jamesort.co.uk