Soapstone Carving
Workshop Dates:Sat July 25 - Sun July 26, 2009
Workshop Fees:$135 + $40 Materials Fee
Workshop #:WS0907-15
Workshop Times:9:30 to 3:30
Workshop Description:This is an introductory carving workshop with soapstone, which is a soft, easy-to-carve metamorphic rock consisting largely of a form of unrefined talc.
No experience in carving is required. If you can peel a potato you can learn to sculpt this material! The objective of the workshop is to work a small piece of stone from a block to a finished state. You will learn about soapstone characteristics and preparations for carving as well as carving techniques and how to work with the medium.
There will also be a demonstration using power tools, especially applicable to larger-scale soapstone sculpture.
Materials Provided by Instructor
- Blocks of soapstone
- Wood rasps
- Basic dust masks
- Sandpaper
Students should bring
- Work gloves
- Clothing for working (Carving soapstone creates powdery dust)
- Basic dust masks will be provided. Students can also bring their own respirators or dust masks, if available.
If students have any of the following, please bring (but not necessary):
- Hand saw
- Swede saw
- Wood rasp
Location:Denman Island Arts Centre
Richard Menard
Richard Menardcreates sculptural form in wood, soapstone and bronze, and has taught several carving workshops on the West Coast. His wooden masks and 3-dimensional pieces are made in fine red and yellow cedar, specializing in rare burls.
His work exudes a contemplative and serene presence, an eclectic mix of Eastern and Western philosophy and art, inspired by studies and travel. He attended an international meditation institute in India to develop his meditation and yoga practice, which continue to be central to his life.
A fascination with the natural world and the beauty of the West Coast took him to Tofino, where he discovered an affinity for working in wood. Richard's work has been greatly influenced by First Nations people, particularly the Nuuchalnuth and Haida, whose art has provided great inspiration and teaching.
A limited edition bronze in 2007, “Migration” celebrates 20 years of exploration in sculpture and carving.