Certificate Character Bust
Sculpting

This course is currently offered in collaboration with Creative Futures Academy (CFA). CFA is a ground-breaking partnership between: The National College of Art and Design, University College Dublin, and the Institute of Art, Design + Technology. Our tailored programmes and micro courses offer access to expertise and networks across the three leading creative institutions and our industry partners. Learn with us as we experiment, innovate and respond to change.

What is Character Bust Sculpting?

This hands-on, immersive sculpting workshop takes participants from concept and anatomy study through to a finished character bust over five intensive studio days. An initial online orientation covers design principles, materials, and preparation. The in-studio block then focuses on practical sculpting techniques — from blocking and anatomy to surface detail and final presentation.

The course emphasizes observation, iteration, and professional industry techniques in character sculpture.

By the end of the course, you will:

• Understand head anatomy and its application to character design
• Be able to sculpt a human or stylised bust from armature to finish
• Apply surface detail techniques for realism or stylisation
• Photograph and present your work professionally
• Take away a finished bust for your portfolio

Students who successfully complete this course will receive a Certificate in Professional Skills for the Creative Industries (Character Bust Sculpting) – Level 8 Award, 5 ECTS.

Who is this course for?

This course is for:

• Artists with some experience in clay or 3D work who want to develop character bust sculpting skills
• Animators, model makers, puppet fabricators, or visual artists expanding into head and bust work
• Students or professionals building portfolio pieces for screen, theatre, or fine art.

Course Location

The in-studio element takes place at Stiúideo Fia, Ireland’s only dedicated stop-motion, and fabrication studio, based in Connemara, Galway. More than just a workshop space, Stiúideo Fia is a safe, creative environment where artists can experiment, learn, and grow. With fully equipped workstations, specialist tools, and a welcoming atmosphere, the studio provides the perfect setting to focus, take risks, and develop new skills alongside like-minded makers.

Set against the dramatic landscape of Connemara, the studio is only minutes from the Atlantic coast. Participants can enjoy walks on the nearby beaches or take in the wild, unspoilt scenery in the evenings — the ideal way to recharge after a day of sculpting.

An extensive accommodation list (including local B&Bs, guesthouses, and self-catering options) will be provided to help participants plan their stay.

How will I be assessed?

Your final submission for assessment should include the following: 

An MP4 video with includes the following:

1. Process documentation by photos, time-lapse or video (this can all be done on a phone, iPad, tablet or computer). You will need to submit an MP4 video of your piece.
2. Include in the video Design and Reference images.
3. Include in the video a self-reflective statement talking about your experience on the course. This can be you face to camera or you talking over the images and video of your work. Please see question prompts below. You do not need to use these they are just a suggestion.

Prompts

1. Why did you pick this 5 Day Character sculpting course.
2. Did you enjoy the course? 
3. If so, what part did you like the most?
4. Talk about why did you created the character you did
5. What surprised or challenged you about what you learned? 
6. What was the most difficult thing you did? 
7. What was the most valuable? 
8. Would this make you want to keep sculpting?
9. What course would you like to do next?

Dates + Times

13th December 2025 |10am – 2pm | Online

15th – 19th December | 9am – 6pm: In person in Stiúideo Fia

Day 1 – 15th December: Concept & Block-In

• Build armature and block in skull/neck mass
• Map proportions and feature guidelines
• Begin shaping cranium and jaw structure
  Goal: Bust structure roughed out, ready for features

Day 2 – 16th December: Features (Eyes, Nose, Mouth, Ears)

• Sculpt and integrate main features
• Demo on eye and eyelid sculpting
• Placement and proportion refinement
  Goal: All primary features in place

Day 3 – 17th December: Refining Planes + Anatomy

• Define planes of the head, refine brow, cheek, jaw
• Correct asymmetry and proportions
• Transition smoothing
  Goal: A cohesive, anatomically sound bust

Day 4 – 18th December: Surface Detail + Character

• Demo: skin folds, wrinkles, texture
• Add age/character details, scars, or stylised elements
• Hairline, horns, or other design features
  Goal: Near-finished bust with detailed surface

Day 5 – 19th December: Finalisation + Presentation

• Final polish, presentation adjustments
• Photography session (lighting, angle, documentation)
• Group critique and feedback
• Wrap-up
• Goal: Completed bust and professional photos for portfolio

Equipment / Materials Requirements

All materials and tools are supplied. 

You will need to bring a design and references with you. References can be printed in the studio.

You can bring your own laptop. You will need to record and document your work (a smartphone will work for this).

How to Apply – Portfolio Submission

We would like to hear from you as to why you would like to do this course and your suitability for it. 

This is not a beginner’s level course, so you will need to provide some evidence of your previous work and ability.

On the application form you will be asked to upload a link to your digital portfolio. Please be clear what is yours and what is collaborative work in your portfolio. You will also need to upload a short video of why you want to do this course.

Meet your Lecturer

The course is led by Paul McDonnell, a master sculptor, fabricator, and creative director with nearly three decades of professional experience in stop-motion, model-making, and visual storytelling. Paul is the founder of Stiúideo Fia and has worked across film, theatre, and television, collaborating with award-winning artists and mentoring the next generation of animators and makers. His teaching style blends deep technical expertise with a passion for fostering creativity, confidence, and storytelling through craft.