The Sacred Bust: A Realistic Sculpting Workshop

Sunday, August 2, 2026- Check -In 4:30 PM
Friday, August 7, 2026- Farewell 1:00 PM

In this intensive workshop, Erin will guide participants through the process of sculpting a realistic portrait bust, drawing upon the techniques of the masters. Students will work from a live  model and apply anatomical knowledge to achieve lifelike and expressive representation.

Participants will be led step-by-step through each stage of the sculpting process, from initial  construction to final refinement. Emphasis will be placed on mastering proportional and gestural accuracy, achieving symmetry, understanding structural anatomy, and capturing the likeness of the model. Each day will feature detailed explanations using visual references, and individualized instruction tailored to each participant’s needs.

Students will work from a live model (provided) in small groups of four or less to ensure personalized attention and an enriching learning environment.

No prior sculpting experience is required. Erin will assess each participant’s skill level and
provide guidance accordingly.

Sculpture armatures will be provided. Participants should bring with them a water bottle and
wooden clay modeling tools.

At Enders Island, all of our workshops are grounded in the Theology of Sacred Art. Each class is specially designed to teach the history and techniques of the discipline in a way that is both accessible to the beginner and challenging for the experienced artist. All workshops are paced so that participants leave with a finished work of art. 

This week-long workshop's studio time lasts five consecutive days. Check-in begins Sunday night at 4:30. Dinner is served at 5:30 pm for students and instructors. Dinner is followed by a workshop introduction and conference, which ends at 9:00 pm. Hands-on instruction begins early Monday morning. The entire workshop ends Friday at 1 PM.