Introduction to Ornamental Woodcarving

Program Overview

This "Introduction to Ornamental Woodcarving" summer short course offers a unique opportunity to learn historic woodcarving techniques. Participants will create original architectural ornaments under expert guidance, mastering chip carving and relief techniques. The course runs over two weeks, with each week offering a separate session, and all tools and materials are included in the course fee.

Program Outline

Okay, here's a breakdown of the "Introduction to Ornamental Woodcarving" summer short course based on the provided context:

Degree Overview:

• Overview: This course offers a rare opportunity to learn historic woodcarving techniques used in traditional craftsmanship.
Participants will create an original architectural ornament (acanthus leaf, oak leaf, or classical moulding) using raw timber and expert guidance.
• Objectives:
• Master the specific skills and techniques needed for historic woodcarving.
• Learn how to work with the wood grain and safely use and sharpen chisels.
• Create two original carvings: a chip carving and an architectural ornament.
• Gain the knowledge and skills to approach and execute simple carving projects independently.
• Program Description:
• The course begins with chip carving, a decorative technique used in medieval and renaissance furniture.
This helps students develop consistency and accuracy in chisel handling.
• Once the basics are mastered, participants learn to carve an original architectural ornament from a plaster mold.
This introduces working in relief and understanding the "drawing" aspect of carving with chisels.

Outline:

• Content: The course covers chip carving, architectural ornament carving, wood grain working, chisel sharpening and use, and basic woodcarving techniques.
• Structure: The course runs over two weeks, with each week offering a separate session.
Students can choose to attend one or both weeks.
• Week 1: July 8th to 12th, 2024
• Week 2: July 15th to 19th, 2024
• Course Schedule: The course runs daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
• Modules:
• Module 1: Chip Carving:
Introduction to different chisels and cuts, practicing on a 6” square oak board.
• Module 2: Architectural Ornament Carving: Creating an acanthus leaf or oak leaf ornament from a plaster mold.
This involves learning relief techniques and understanding grain direction.
• Individual Module Descriptions:
• Module 1:
Focuses on developing fundamental carving skills through chip carving. Students learn various chisel cuts and how to handle tools with precision.
• Module 2: Guides students through creating a decorative architectural element.
Participants learn to work in relief, manage grain direction, and "draw" with chisels.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The course employs a hands-on approach with expert guidance.
Participants receive individual attention and learn by doing.
• Faculty: The course is led by Saena Ku, an experienced woodcarving tutor.
• Unique Approaches: The course emphasizes traditional historic woodcarving techniques, ensuring participants acquire authentic skills.

Other:

• Cost: £560 per week.
• Materials: All tools and materials are included in the course fee.
• Discounts: 10% discount available for City & Guilds of London Art School students, alumni, and staff.
• Testimonials: The course has received positive feedback from previous participants, praising the teaching, content, and overall experience.
Please let me know if you have any other questions.