What will I achieve?

Taking inspiration from detailed illustrated medieval manuscripts, you will learn how to adapt your chosen illustration into a design suitable for stone-carving.

You will carve a stone-relief depicting a mythical beast with accompanying foliage.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is offered to early-career stone-carvers and masons, or aspirational amateurs who can demonstrate a high level of potential and commitment to their practice (through CV and photographic evidence). 

How will I be taught?

The stone-carving methods taught will enhance professional carvers’ existing tool skills and quickly develop amatuer carvers.

Participants will be taught by demonstration and hands-on practise, with expert guidance from our tutor.

The mythical beasts panels will be carved from Purbeck Pond Freestone, a high quality limestone sourced from quarries at St.Aldhelm’s Head, near our Burngate centre. This stone has been used in many noteable buildings in London and locally (eg. Portsmouth cathedral).

Is there anything I need to prepare in advance or bring?

Stone, tools, and safety equipment will be provided. 

Please wear old clothes and stout shoes or boots which cover your toes and protect your feet. 

You are welcome to bring along medieval beast illustrations, alternatively we have several illustrations from which you can choose.

The course covers five days 10am to 4pm with an hour’s lunch break each day. Please bring a packed lunch and snacks with you. The course fee includes complimentary teas, coffees and biscuits.