18
A Mould Making Workshop
with Carol Orwin
'I love learning as an adult!
In my youth, much as I loved school, so much of life seemed to be formal learning that if someone suggested another course or educational “opportunity” outside of school, I would inevitably roll my eyes and try to think up an excuse as to why it was probably a waste of time my going.
As an adult, the chance of learning something new - a skill or additional level of expertise which will allow me to create and expand my repertoire - is one of the most exciting things imaginable! ]
It was, then, with great anticipation that I got into my car and drove to Ashford on a cold Sunday in February, to join 10 other SSS members to learn about “Mould Making” from sculptor and teacher, Carol Orwin.
Carol’s meticulous preparation for this class was evident at the outset. With various examples of “sculptures she had prepared earlier”, it was clear we were going to have a comprehensive and clearly illustrated journey through the mould making process during our fairly limited time in the “classroom”.
Having practised and taught sculpture for many years, Carol has an extraordinary depth of knowledge and experience. Her clear and patient explanation at each stage of the process, allowed us to garner all the basic elements of mould-making as we went through the different stages from the first thin layer of silicone to making shims and learning about the fibreglass casing which would keep our moulds in working condition for years to come. There was even audience participation to ensure we had fully understood our newly learned craft!
I don’t want to go into too much detail about the process here. Thanks to Carol and our resident videographer, Marian Ironmonger, we have a fantastic video link above which will allow you to benefit from our session too.
But what I would want to encourage is for you to sign up to our Education programme. Not all the topics will fascinate you, but I bet there will be at least be one or two a year that will pique your interest. From mouldmaking to 3D printing, from studio visits to our annual lecture, for a small organisation we have a fantastically diverse programme of events which is available to you as a member or Friend either free or, at most, for a negligible cost.
Why not try it? It may be that next source of inspiration you were looking for!
Written By Caroline Wheaton