Discovering Sculpture

This introduction to sculpture uses two and three dimensional drawing techniques that allows pupils to create a sculptural artwork with wire, withies and wool.

Aims (Skills, Knowledge, Activity, Result)

  • To observe, discuss and be inspired by a range of different sculptures.
  • To widen pupils understanding of drawing to include abstract and three-dimensional work.
  • To develop technical skills through experimentation with a variety of materials
  • To return to school with sculptures, drawings and understanding of the sculptors process.

 What teachers are saying about the session

“Every child produced a really thoughtful and unique sculpture/drawing. Even children who normally shy away from art were enthusiastic and engrossed.”

Teacher, Stanley Grove Primary School

 What pupils are saying about the session

“Please Miss, can we come again next week”

Year 4 pupil, Stanley Grove Primary School

What happens in a session:

We look at a range of sculptures varying in scale, age, materials and construction. We look from different viewpoints and respond to each sculpture through discussion and drawing.

Pupils demonstrate their emotional response to a work of art, developing their imaginations through story-telling and considering how everyday objects might be used to create a sculpture.

Pupils work as a team to produce a “living sculpture”. They also make a sculpture from withies, wire and assorted wools and threads. These sculptures will be abstract and experimental with them learning that a drawing can be three-dimensional.

Preparation:

  • Ask pupils what the difference is between 2D and 3D work.
  • Talk about what sculptures can be made from and what sizes they can be.
  • Ask why would an artist choose to make a sculpture rather than a 2D piece?
  • Collect images of sculptures for discussion trying to find as many different materials and construction techniques as possible.

For more information including booking, parking, facilities and a downloadable risk assessment, please go to plan your visit.

NC Related Themes

Art, Craft and Design

Pupils will engage with a range of sculptures, sharing their opinions about these with each other. They will gather information about a sculpture by producing an observational drawing. By making their own sculpture inspired by the work in the gallery they will develop their appreciation of how professional artists work.

Design and Technology

By investigating a range of different materials, pupils will extend their understanding of how objects are made.

Literacy

Pupils will extend their vocabulary and confidence through discussion about the sculptures being observed. They will also explore storytelling when looking at a sculpture.