Teaching approach
Coming Soon
Four Week Portrait Sculpture Class with Penko Platikanov
Description
This portrait sculpture class in NYC meets four Mondays in Chelsea with Penko Platikanov, a classically trained sculptor. You’ll sculpt a realistic female head from a live model, a real person in the room rather than a photo. Every level of experience is welcome.
The portrait starts with an armature, the internal support that holds the clay. You’ll block in the overall shape of the head, then work toward the features. You’ll learn proportion, such as where the eyes, nose, and ears sit in relation to one another, and see how small changes in the anatomy can shift a face’s mood. Plastilene, an oil based clay, stays soft, so you can push, adjust, and rework as you go.
The class is kept small, so Penko can give you more one on one attention as your portrait develops. Over four weeks, a block of clay becomes a portrait you sculpted from life.
What to Expect
- Setting up a head armature as the foundation for your portrait
- Blocking in the basic form of the head in plastilene
- Modeling detailed features with attention to proportion and anatomy
- Bringing mood and a classic sculptural quality into a realistic portrait
How It Works
- The course begins with setting up your head armature, the support your portrait is built on. Working from the live model, you'll block in the basic form, focusing on proportion and the overall structure of the head. As the weeks go on, you'll keep building the form and developing your anatomical awareness, with one on one guidance from Penko. In the final classes, you'll model the detailed features and bring mood and character into the portrait.
Space and Atmosphere
- A workspace with a grittier feel.
- A place to work and get to know fellow artists
What To Bring
- The live model is included in the class fee. You'll need a head armature, plastilene, and clay tools. Bring your own, or purchase them at the store.
Cancellation Policy
Some classes have their own cancellation or refund policies, which will be listed in the class description and take precedence over our general policy where they differ.
If you cancel: Tickets are refundable if canceled at least 7 days before the class, less a processing-based cancellation fee of approximately 3% on card-paid amounts. Gift card payments are refunded in full to gift card credit when eligible. Cancellations within 7 days are non-refundable unless an exception applies.
If we cancel: You’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule, when available. Different terms may apply to circumstances beyond our control.
If you can’t attend, you may transfer your ticket to a friend.
For details, please review our Cancellation & Refund FAQs. To request a cancellation, contact support@dobedous.com with your class name and order number.
Location
NEW YORK, 110 W 19TH ST, NEW YORK, New York, 10011 View Direction
Additional information
Must push call button on Buzzer by door. Clear signs denoting this. Space is on lower level. Stairs and elevator available.
Your Instructor
Established in New York City in 1995 as a comprehensive source of sculptural materials and tools, it is one of the largest sculptural materials suppliers in the world. It also provides classes and related services for professional sculptors, as well as other users of sculptural materials, such as movie and television set designers and law enforcement forensic teams.
Who This Is For
- Adults, 18+
Good To Know Tips
Arrive a little early
Please arrive about 10 minutes before the class starts so you can settle in comfortably.
Check your confirmation email
After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with directions and any important details for the class.
What to expect
Class format, materials, and preparation are all outlined in the class description. Most classes are beginner-friendly unless noted otherwise.
About the instructor
All classes are taught by vetted artists and makers who are experienced in both their craft and teaching.
Why DoBeDoUs
We offer local, artist-led classes that support ongoing creative learning and bring people together through community.
The Compleat Sculptor Inc
What we love about this studio
Best suited for
Coming Soon
Studio setting
Coming Soon
Still Have Questions?
If you don’t see what you’re looking for, view our FAQs or contact us.
Gifting
Give the joy of artmaking. Coming Soon.
A DoBeDoUs Gift Card is a thoughtful way to give something meaningful to your loved ones. They can use it to join any class that inspires them. Gift cards never expire, have no extra fees, and are delivered instantly by email.
