When sculpting insecurity, mischief, skepticism, jealousy, contentment… asymmetry is key.

These beautiful works were created by students in Arthur Gonzalez’s recent workshop: “When Sculpture Talks Back.”

THE POWER OF SUBTLETY

Arthur is intrigued by the storytelling possibilities of understated, human expressions. For him, “a subtler expression is more alive. It has a longer existence.”

In his workshop, students explored how minute changes, like a slight turn at the corner of a mouth, tilt of the head, or an asymmetrical element like an eyebrow can create complex, intriguing emotion.

“We all know how to read faces,” he says. And if you can see it in real life… you can sculpt it.”

INSIDE-OUT TECHNIQUE

The class achieved their impressive results using Arthur’s preferred “inside-out”-technique.

Starting with a pinch pot head, they learned to add and subtract clay, pushing from the inside to create a cheekbone and from the outside to create an eye socket, for example.

COLLECTIVE ENERGY

These sculptures definitely have a lot to say. Arthur said, “This class had a beautiful, collective energy. They were a very talented group and even those without experience did really well.”

Want to experience clay at Penland? We will be announcing our spring 2025 lineup later this month…