Concrete Casting Short Course
Course description
Course overview
The course is hands-on, and participants will learn how to make cast concrete objects and sculpture / art works. The course aims to equip you with the skills to develop your own ideas and projects through experimentation, a series of mould-making techniques and other possible applications of the material in an art and design context. Looking at the modest and the monumental as inspiration; Picassos concrete sculptures and other contemporary artists such as the work of Michael Dean and Rachel Whiteread, as well as Brutalist architecture and the influences of Le Corbusier.
The course will consider mould-making using a variety of materials including wood, metal, plastic, sand, vacuum forming and other salvaged materials with the aim of keeping costs low and being environmentally conscious. The final element will look at sculpting and painting with concrete - making and sculpting a small object.
Who this course is for
This course is suitable for artists, designers, architects and anyone who wants to experiment with these materials, regardless of prior experience. Beginners are welcome, as are those looking to expand existing knowledge.
Key information
Topics covered
- Presentation of the context of concrete in art, architecture and design
- Learning basics of concrete mixing, ratios, cement and aggregates
- Making basic moulds for casting objects - options to create art / sculpture / design objects - including demos on creating pots, tiles and models (Experimental approach is encouraged and you can develop work throughout the course Latex moulding - where to use latex for detailed cast objects and outdoor / garden sculpture)
- Small armature making - sculpting with concrete and using as a painting medium
- Pigment additions
- Ciment fondu
- Discussions of sustainability and impact of concrete on the environment, and ideas around a climate conscious artistic practice, rammed earth, hempcrete and natural concrete
Learning outcomes
- Ability to make a variety of cast objects in concrete
- Understand the material possibilities subverting expectations
- Know the basics of concrete mixing, ratios, cement and aggregates
- Understand how to make basic moulds for casting objects
- Understand where to use latex for detailed cast objects
- Digital badge and certificate of attendance
Materials
- Textiles for impression
- Object for small relief casting: maximum size L: 12 x W: 12 x h: 3cm (students can discuss with tutor)
- Plastic pots: yoghurt pots and cardboard tube
- Pair of washing up gloves recommended (disposable gloves will be provided)
- Appropriate clothing / overalls for messy work
Tutor
Catriona Robertson
Catriona Robertson is an artist working in sculpture, installation and performance. Catriona graduated from the Royal College of Art in 2019 and has recently been awarded Second Prize UK New Artist of the year with an exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery and the Gilbert Bayes Royal Society of Sculptors Award 2022.
Catriona is a Specialist Technician in Metalwork Fabrication (MIG Welding) and Mouldmaking Casting at Central Saint Martins, teaching students in art and design courses in Foundation, BA and MA.
More information: www.catrionarobertson.co.uk
Instagram: @catrionart
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