Skeleton sculptures are displayed on pedestals, scattered throughout an art studio. The room has white walls, shelves, and spotlights. Text includes "EXIT" and a recycling sign with "RECYCLE" next to it.

People wearing protective gear smile near industrial equipment. A red fire extinguisher and metal walls form the background. A safety sign reads: "CAUTION: EYE PROTECTION MUST BE WORN WHEN OPERATING THIS MACHINE."

An intricate, multicolored sculptural object exhibits swirling, eye-like patterns and openings, set against a solid black background, creating a mysterious and organic appearance.

A person wearing glasses and a cap focuses intently on a desktop computer displaying 3D modeling software. Nearby, a red 3D printer and sculptural objects suggest a creative studio environment.

The Sculpture Program at Academy Of Art University

Academy of Art University’s sculpture program (offered in the School of Fine Art) is an immersive, hands-on experience that will teach you the traditional skills you’ll need to create both figurative and non-figurative work. We’ll expose you to classic methods and cutting-edge technologies that can be used to manifest your personal artistic vision in the world.

From the basics of hands-on studio work to the mind-bending possibilities of digital sculpture, you will navigate the expansive world of recreating and reimagining three-dimensional forms as art. You will graduate with a wide-ranging portfolio of work that demonstrates your knowledge and understanding of sculpture in all of its forms.

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A sculpted figure, depicted in a seated, resting pose with intricate body designs, is positioned beside a smiling individual in dark clothing, set against a black background.

Mask displayed on white background; workers in protective gear pour molten metal in a workshop. Green flame visible during pouring. Shelves with molds hang on the wall.

Studio Work

Context is a critical element in sculpture. You will learn the importance of contextual elements such as site, scale, surface, form, function, material, intention, and the viewer, to create professional portfolio-level sculpture.

The Human Form

A fundamental skill in sculpture is the ability to represent both realistic and unique and personal interpretations of the human form. You’ll work representationally and expressively to develop formal head and figure techniques. You will learn how to comfortably and confidently express your personal creative ideas with clay. And you’ll develop skills in modeling gestures, figures, and proportions.

A white stone sculpture depicts a veiled woman's head with draped fabric details, set against a dark background, accentuating its textured contours and expressive features. No text is present.

Three sculptural figures are displayed in overlapping circles. The top figure is a blue, smiling creature with red hair and three eyes. The others are a dark menacing head and a curious eye-like form. Colorful circles enhance the background.

Animals and Inanimate Objects

While the human form is often perceived as the primary subject for sculptors, we believe it’s important to learn how to sculpt mammals and other animals. You will explore both anatomical realism and abstracted gestural movement of various animals, and you’ll use aspects of design, finish, and personal style to create portfolio-ready work.

Being able to create objects for both aesthetics and function is another critical skill our program will teach you. You will learn how to make cylinders, bowls, and discs on a potter’s wheel. You will use these shapes to create sculptures and practice low temperature firings like raku.

Digital and Other Media

In today’s world of ever-advancing technology, it’s important to learn the concepts and methods used to produce digital sculptures. You will create organic and hard-surface objects in a digital sculpting application, explore 3D painting, and practice concept ideation.

While mastering the digital realm is important, we also believe that a well-rounded sculptor knows how to create in basic analog media as well. Paper is a powerful, creative tool. You’ll learn how natural and raw plant materials become unique papers using historical and contemporary techniques. And you’ll learn how to transform these papers into amazing projects for book arts, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and wearables.

A person scans a sculpted bust using a handheld device. Nearby, a 3D printer and computer display the scanned model. The room is equipped for artistic production.