Stone Carving Techniques, culture and history is a comprehensive course that immerses students in the art, culture and history of stone carving, providing them with fundamental skills, knowledge, and tools to create intricate and captivating stone sculptures. 

Individuals interested in exploring stone carving as an art form will find this course valuable. It is also beneficial for students studying art or architecture at an academic level, offering a practical perspective. Furthermore, the course will cover the psychology and cultural aspects of craftsmanship.

Throughout this course, participants will engage in theory discussions, hands-on practice, and personal projects to refine their craft and unleash their creativity in working with stone. With modules covering introductory to advanced techniques, students will explore the history, tools, materials, design principles, finishing processes, and exhibition practices essential for becoming proficient in stone carving. Emphasizing practical assessments, individual projects, peer critiques, and expert guidance, this course equips students with the necessary expertise to excel in the realm of stone carving and set them on a path towards independent artistic expression.

(All modules will include an introduction, demonstration and practical hands-on exercise.)

Module 1: Introduction to Stonemasonry and  Stone carving

- Carving basic shapes and patterns

- Overview of the history and significance of stone carving

- Introduction to different types of stones used in stone carving

- Safety procedures and best practices in stone carving

Module 2: Tools and Materials

- Introduction to basic stone carving tools: chisels, hammers, rasps, files, etc.

- Experimenting with different tools and techniques

- Types of stones suitable for carving

- Techniques for selecting, handling, and preparing stone for carving

Module 3: Basic Stone Carving Techniques

- Developing precision and control in carving

- Roughing out

- Shaping and detailing

- Smoothing and finishing techniques

Module 4: Advanced Stone carving Techniques

- Relief carving

- Sculpting in the round

- Creating texture and patterns

- Adding finer details

- Creating movement and energy in your work

Module 5: Design and Composition

- Understanding form, proportion, and balance in stone carving

- Developing a design concept for a stone sculpture

- Translating a design into a three-dimensional form

Module 6: Individual Projects

- Students will work on individual stone carving projects under the guidance of the instructor

- Emphasis on applying learned techniques, exploring creativity, and developing a personal style

- Regular feedback and critique sessions to enhance learning and progress

Module 7: Finishing and Presentation

- Techniques for polishing and finishing a stone sculpture

- Mounting and displaying finished pieces

- Documenting and photographing finished work

Module 8: Exhibition and Critique

- Preparation for a class exhibition of students' works

- Peer critique sessions to evaluate and provide feedback on each other's projects

- Reflection on the learning journey and future directions in stone carving

 Assessment:

- Regular practical assessments of hands-on exercises

- Completion and presentation of individual projects

- Participation in critiques and feedback sessions

- Final assessment based on overall progress and development throughout the course

Resources:

- Stone Carving tools and materials

- Reference books and online resources on stone carving

- Access to a well-equipped stone carving studio or workshop

- Lectures or demonstrations by practicing 

Master stone carvers

Conclusion:

By the end of this course, students will have gained a solid foundation in essential stone carving techniques and concepts, as well as developed the skills and confidence to pursue their own stone carving projects independently. The combination of theory, practical exercises, and individual projects will provide a rich and engaging learning experience for aspiring stone carvers.

Add on modules: These can be taken as a lecture organised a day workshop.