Sculptural Forms
Adult Summer Class | Registration opens Monday, May 4, 2026 8:00 AM EDT
You will explore a range of three-dimensional working methods starting with simple studies of organic and geometric forms, culminating in basic figure and animal shapes. Each piece will be sculpted in clay and fired at the end of the semester. No prior experience necessary.
What you will learn:
1. To create forms out of clay from observation.
2. How to properly use tools.
3. How to prepare pieces for firing.
4. How to finish sculptures with a variety of patinas.
5. Increased knowledge of hand-building techniques.
Firing Schedule: Sculpture students are welcome to fire finished work in our Ceramics Studio. Finished work may not be on an armature and must be bone dry before firing. Therefore, sculpture students are encouraged to bring finished work home at the end of the term and bring it back to campus the following term for firing. Additional questions about firing sculpture works can be directed to Scott Cooper, Senior Studio Technician at scooper@fleisher.org.
• A board to sculpt on
• Modeling tools (required: pick tool, wire loop tools, wooden or steel ribs, wire clay cutter)
• Notebook/sketchbook and a pen or pencil
• Sponge
• Small chamois cloth
• Additional clay, as needed
• Your first bag of clay is included in your registration – no outside clay is permitted. Additional clay can be purchased at the front desk.
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Nina Rajagopalan
Nina Rajagopalan (they/them) is a ceramic and fiber artist living in West Philadelphia. They have been a practicing ceramic artist for over a decade, creating figure and animal sculpture and functional wheel-thrown pottery. Nina also makes handmade clothing, often using reclaimed fabrics. They teach ceramics classes for adults and youth at several art centers throughout Philadelphia. In Nina’s own art practice, they explore archetypal and playful motifs, and they enjoy experimenting with unusual forms, flashy colors and bold patterns. Nina started participating in wood firings a couple of years ago and they are very excited to continue learning more about this fascinating form of ceramic production.