Sandstone Carving – Antone Bruinsma
Level of Competency – beginners or those with some experience are welcome
Duration of Workshop – 4 days – Wed. September 21 – Sat. September 24
Cost of Workshop – $280 + materials
Biographical Details
Antone Bruinsma is an Australian based sculptor with more that 30 years of professional experience. He moved to Australia from Amsterdam, Holland with his family at the age of 12. After Art College, he held positions on the Warana Festival Committee (Brisbane), the Crafts Council Queensland and the Society of Sculptors Queensland (President 1983-1985) where he worked to promote public art and sculpture in Queensland and Australia. His primary goal is always to present meaningful sculpture for public display. Antone’s motto is “for excellence in 3-D contemporary fine art”.
He describes his sculptures as a homage to Mother Earth and the gifts she bestows upon us. His work incorporates mythological imagery, related to the environment and the community in which the sculptures will be placed. Such work is designed to capture the public’s attention and imagination, and can be seen in many locations within this region. His commissions are far reaching and Antone’s sculptures are evident in many prestigious public and private collections. He recently returned from a Sculpture Symposium in Guilin, China.
Workshop Details
Antone will introduce you to various techniques of stone carving, covering such aspects as the use of hand, pneumatic and power tools. He will also demonstrate methods of creating clay maquettes (models) using found objects in nature as a starting point, before making final decisions regarding shape and form. Focusing techniques and group meditation are integral components of Antone’s workshops. Most importantly, he will teach you how to ‘read stone’, that is, the grain, colourations and form, and how, by understanding it and working with it, you will be well placed to create your own stylized sandstone sculpture. The size of sculptures will be kept to moderate proportions, to be able to be carried by one, or at the least two people.
Materials and Equipment Required for Workshop
Antone will supply the clay for the Marquette, and some hand and pneumatic tools to be shared amongst the group. Blocks of Helidon sandstone will be available to students for purchase at between $15 and $25 per block depending on size. If needed, kit of basic hand carving tools, sufficient for this workshop can be purchased from the tutor for $35. Safety equipment such as a good quality dust mask, good quality safety specs, good quality hand gloves, closed shoes and ear muffs and protection is essential. For design preparation, bring a sketch pad and drawing utensils.
