Basic Sculpture: Wire Mesh and Plaster Cloth

Workshop: Basic Sculpture: Wire Mesh and Plaster Cloth

Format: 4 Live Online Zoom Sessions

Time: 11:00 am - 12:30 pm CST

Instructor: Helen Dannelly

Level: Beginner

Tuition: $525

Discover the foundations of sculpture in this hands-on online workshop designed for beginners. In Basic Sculpture, you’ll learn how to create dynamic three-dimensional forms using wire mesh as an armature, which will then be shaped, refined, and covered with plaster cloth. Once dry, you'll have the option to bring your piece to life with paint or explore the luminous, textural beauty of encaustic (wax-based) finishing.

Through step-by-step instruction, live Q&A, and detailed supply lists, you’ll develop your skills in building structure, surface treatment, and creative finishing techniques—all from your home studio. This course is perfect for artists, educators, and crafters interested in adding sculpture to their creative practice.

No prior experience required—just curiosity and a willingness to get your hands messy!

What to Expect

• Learn unconventional ways to create dynamic three-dimensional forms using wire mesh as an armature, which will then be shaped, refined, and covered with plaster cloth

• Practice guided exploration of new materials

• Utilize encaustic OR acrylic OR oil and cold wax as surface treatments

• Deconstruct the work of contemporary 3D artists - like Kiki Smith, Diana Al Hadid, Eva Hesse and Magdalena Abakanowicz

• Hone your critical thinking skills, unearthing new means to express your ideas

Course Format

This is a process-based, student-centered online course. Classes will include a mixture of live demos, prompts, and other varieties of exercises tailored to students’ unique needs and goals. Basic Sculpture is guaranteed you help think outside the box with your art-making.

FAQs

Q: Do I need any sculpture experience to join?

A: Not at all! This course is designed for total beginners. If you’ve never sculpted before, you’re in the right place.

Q: What materials will I need?

A: A full supply list will be provided upon registration. Basic materials include wire mesh, plaster cloth, scissors, paint or encaustic materials, and protective coverings for your workspace.

Q: How is the course delivered?

A: The course is entirely online. You’ll get access to the live session recordings and downloadable handouts (if applicable) for 1 year.

Q: What if I can’t make the live sessions?

A: No worries! All live sessions will be recorded and shared so you can watch at your convenience.

Q: Is encaustic finishing required?

A: Not at all—it's one of the options! You can choose to paint your sculpture or experiment with encaustic if you're interested in exploring something new.

Questions? Contact me.

What People Are Saying

"Helen is a phenomenal artist, instructor and encaustic sculptor. Love her work!" - Matt Tommey

"I loved how this class really expanded my thinking about what was possible creatively! I am a painter but I always wanted to try working sculpturally. This was the perfect introduction. I highly recommend it. Can't wait to take the next class! Thanks, Helen!"

-Chris L.

"The instructor was patient in answering students’ questions and generous with her support well beyond the actual time spent together in the Zoom class. Helen shared her knowledge and time to support each student individually as we experimented with these new materials. She challenged us to think in new ways and gave generously of her support when we had questions or encountered problems in our work.”

-Laureen W.

"Fabulous instructor! Supportive and knowledgeable. And some amazing “classmates” whom I hope to meet in person when life becomes a little more normal. I did a lot of playing with different materials and plan to expand my experiments more in July. Great classes!"

-Catherine M.