Delivery Mode
on campus
Start Date
2026-12-12
End Date
2026-12-18
Level
EFQ Level 6 / NFQ Level 7
Fee
€800 or €1,500
ECTS
5
Overview
This intensive practical workshop, led by stop-motion artist Paul McDonnell, introduces participants to character sculpture for animation, film and visual effects. Through demonstrations and hands-on studio work, participants will learn professional model-making techniques and develop their understanding of form, proportion, anatomy and expression while sculpting an expressive character bust. Suitable for beginners and more experienced artists and makers, no prior sculpting experience is required, although a basic level of artistic ability or creative practice is recommended. Participants will complete a finished character bust and receive professional portfolio documentation of their work. Dates + Times Online Intro: 12th December, 10am - 1pm Studio Workshop: 14th - 18th December, 9am - 6pm (in Stiúideo Fia, Connemara)
What You'll Learn
What You Will Learn Participants will: • Learn the fundamentals of character sculpture, form and proportion • Understand basic anatomy and expression for character design • Develop techniques for building and refining a character bust in clay • Gain insight into sculptural processes used in film and animation production • Receive individual guidance and feedback throughout the workshop What You Will Leave With By the end of the course participants will have: • A completed character bust sculpture • Professional portfolio photographs of their finished work • Video documentation suitable for portfolios or applications • A practical understanding of the core principles of character sculpture
Requirements
Applicants should demonstrate a basic level of artistic ability, creative practice or relevant professional experience.