Character Sculpting and Mask Making

Saturdays | 21 June – 26 July,
11am – 5pm

About the course

Join for a new immersive course at Forgan Arts Centre with local sculptor and practical-effects artist, Keith Robson.

Ever wondered how they made the shark in Jaws? Or how Darth Vader’s helmet was sculpted for Star Wars? And, how did those dinosaurs look so real in Jurassic Park?

Beyond digital effects and CGI, often the creation of iconic characters, eye-catching props and captivating movie monsters is a process that begins with sculpting in clay. Working from our pottery studio, you will be guided through the step-by-step process of making a wearable character mask; developed with the same methods and techniques used to create some of most memorable movie characters and effects created in Hollywood.

Over 5 sessions you will learn:

• The fundamentals of sculpting
• Character design
• Material properties and handling techniques for working with water-based clay
• Working with anatomy and forms
• Understanding symmetry and proportions
• Clay sculpture carving and texture techniques
• Preparing plaster moulds
• Latex-rubber casting
• Painting effects and finishing on clay

At the end of the workshop you will take home: a finished, fully painted and wearable rubber mask; or, a decorative character display piece; the completed plaster mould, allowing you to easily create multiples of your mask; insight and knowledge of character development and of practical-effects used in iconic films.

Please note, that as this workshop requires the handling of latex rubber – it is unsuitable for those with latex allergies.

What to bring

All course materials will be provided.
In advance of the course beginning, students will be assigned some preparatory tasks to guide their designs. Throughout, students are encouraged to bring reference materials, imagery and imagination!
Not essential, but students may find it helpful to bring a laptop/table/mobile device to source inspiration as the course progresses.

About the artist

Keith Robson is an enthusiastic and versatile artist with a passion for creating and learning new skills. Blending deep knowledge of materials from a career in the construction industry, he adapts and applies this appreciation of fabrication to props, costumes and practical effects. With experience of working across several feature films, crafting props, set-designs, make-up effects as well as character acting, writing and directing – Keith delivers these sessions with a range of skills integral to the special effects industry.