Learn how to build sculptures with wire. After experimenting with cutting and bending techniques, you will design and craft your own final sculpture.
In this workshop, you'll be introduced to the basic techniques of shaping, cutting, and forming wire. Through hands-on experience with a variety of tools, you'll explore the process of sculpting with wire, learning how to build structures, and experiment with negative space and 3D line. The workshop will focus on considering the shape, size, and function of your sculptures, while also discussing various display methods—such as suspended or freestanding installations—and how to ensure your sculptures are viewable from all angles.
We’ll kick off with a group warm-up activity where you’ll be challenged to create the 'perfect' circle using wire. This will introduce you to the essential techniques of cutting, bending, and twisting wire, along with the concept of forming wire around a found object to achieve smooth shapes.
Afterward, you’ll design and sketch 3D plans for your final sculpture. You'll then have time to experiment on your own, using the tools and materials provided, to create your own wire artwork. By the end of the workshop, you'll gain the skills to turn a 2D drawing into a 3D sculpture and create a piece that can be viewed from every angle—an essential skill for any 3D artist.
For each sculpture, inspiration will be drawn from your own self-portrait, created using a mirror (which will be provided). The workshop will include a variety of equipment and materials, such as wire cutters, cutting mats, wire, pliers, safety glasses, modelling material, paper, and pencils. All these items will be available for use throughout the workshop.
Learning Methods
This course will be delivered on campus over 2 hours.
What to Bring
- A water bottle to stay hydrated
- If possible, bring your own apron/wear overalls (optional but recommended)
- A sketchbook and a notebook (optional)
- Sensible, flat, closed, footwear
What we recommend
- Old, comfortable, clothing
- No jewellery
- Something to tie back long hair
- Leave valuables at home
Activity Summary
- Minimum of 8 students, maximum of 10 in each group.
- 2 hours of teaching in total either 10:00 - 12:00 or 13:15 - 15:15.
AM workshop
- Registration: 09:50–10:00
- Workshop: 10:00–12:00
- Departure: 12:00-12:15
PM workshop
- Registration: 13:00-13:15
- Workshop: 13:15–15:15
- Departure: 15:15–15:30
Assessment
This course is not formally assessed.
Staff Delivering on this Course
Ray Downie
Ray Downie is an inventor of playful sculptures that invite the audience to interact. His designs harness natural energy sources—such as touch, wind, and movement—and convert them into power for the sculptures' mechanical sounds and moving parts.
Ray is the Coordinator of Gray’s Mobile Art School and teaches hands-on workshops at secondary schools across Scotland in his signature pink van.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this course.
Required Age
Students are required to be at least 11 years of age on the day of the workshop.
The workshop is designed for young creatives currently in S1–S4 of secondary school (aged between 11-15 years old).
For Academic Year 2024/2025
Course fee: £30 per person for the course.
The fee is to be paid as part of sign up process and prior to workshop date.
After completing the registration form, you will be directed to the payment page. Your place on the course is not confirmed until payment has been received. If you have any difficulties locating the payment link or if you have registered for this course but have not completed the payment form, please contact us for a direct link to pay which will bypass registration.
Additional Costs
Essential core materials are provided.
The following course-related costs are not included in the course fees:
Course Cancellation
If minimum participant numbers for this course are not met, the course will be cancelled and participants will receive a full refund.
Disclaimer
For new intakes course fees are reviewed and published annually for each mode of delivery. Tuition fees are fixed for the duration of a course at the rate confirmed in advance. For further information see:
Any questions?
Get in touch with the Engage Team and we'll do our best to help.