Experiments in Sculpture

Develop sculptural ideas and experiment with form through drawing and model making, before finalising and finishing a unique piece.

This is a course for anyone new to sculpture, and those with an experience in the subject looking to further their practice.

Led by Leicester artist Austin Orwin, will allow you to explore the development of ideas into three dimensional form. You will experiment with form through drawing, maquette making, analysis and discussion, and will be guided through the sculptural process from materials and techniques to idea development and the realisation of your ideas into a final piece.

After initial exploration of form through research and drawings you will create a series of small models to help turn your ideas into three-dimensional form.

The objectives of this course are to learn a range of sculptural techniques from initial conception of an idea to the finished sculpture. You will be encouraged to develop an ambitious approach to object making, and will be guided through the use of a range of materials.

Those with experience will be given the opportunity to develop their own practice within a very creative, supportive environment. Supported by the tutor, experienced students will be encouraged to push the boundaries of their work.

About the tutor:

Sculptor and experienced tutor Austin Orwin has been teaching sculptural techniques at Attenborough Arts Centre for 20 years. He’s passionate about sculpture and how we interpret and respond to visual form. Alongside his teaching Austin runs his own sculpture practise, using everything from clay modelling techniques to stone carving to realise his sculptural designs.

Further information:

All materials are included in the course fee.

Participants must be aged 16+. Under 18s must be accompanied by a paying adult at all times. There may be visual reference to nudes in art and/or sculptural work featuring the nude human form as part of the course.

This course runs on Monday afternoons, 2pm – 4:30pm, for 9 weeks, starting on Monday 11 January 2027, or on Thursday evenings 6pm – 8:30pm, for 9 weeks, starting on Thursday 14 January 2027. Please ensure you book the correct day/time you require.

If the course/workshop you’d like to book is sold out, we do operate a waiting list – simply contact our box office team on 0116 252 2455 / arts-centre@le.ac.uk and ask to be added to the waiting list. We’ll then contact you if a place becomes available, with absolutely no obligation to accept it if you’ve made other plans!

We aim to make all our sessions as accessible as possible and carers/PAs are very welcome – just remember to book their free place when you book your session. If you’d like to talk to us in advance of booking or attending your sessions to discuss your access needs, our Box