I have taught vocational stone carving at technical colleges and community art centres for over twelve years. I now run courses in stone carving in the foothills of the Pyrenees one hour south of Toulouse.

Students come to these classes to discover the pleasures and to learn the processes of carving. A choice of projects is given to each participant.

Through demonstrations, discussion and independent work, students develop a feel for the stone and learn about the reductive processes of carving as well as how to use the different tools.

Each student finishes the course with a unique carved piece and a wealth of practical experience.

Tools and stone are provided; everyone works at their own pace and no previous experience is necessary.

The Courses

Two courses are offered:

• Introduction to stone carving

  A pleasurable initiation to three dimensional carving with enough time to complete one project and acquire a level of skill with the tools.

• Introduction to bas relief and relief carving

  These ancient art forms may appeal to those interested in the possibilities of using stone to make pictures rather than three dimensional sculpture.

Relief carving is less physically demanding than stone carving as it (usually) involves less stone being removed.