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Box 3 Waldersee Manitoba R0J 2G0

Phone: +1.204-352-4096

Email. Journeyhomeartistretreat@gmail.com




journeyhomeartistretreat@gmail.com

+1.204-352-4096

Journey home creative healing  retreat

Journey Home Artist Retreat © ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 

 Sculpting four ways!  

TWO DAY RETREAT


​​So, you’re curious about sculpture—awesome! Whether you're just dipping your toes into the world of clay and plaster, or looking to expand your artistic toolkit, Robert’s got your back. Today, he’s walking us through four fundamental sculpture techniques that artists have used for ages to bring their wildest 3D ideas to life.

Let’s break it down.

1. Assemblage: Like 3D Collage

Think of assemblage as the artsy cousin of a LEGO set. You take found objects—random stuff you might have lying around, or pieces you’ve collected—and combine them into a sculpture. It’s all about construction and creativity. You’re not shaping the material—you’re building with it.

Old tools, driftwood, broken toys, wire—anything can be fair game. Assemblage turns the ordinary into something extraordinary.

2. Carving: Subtract to Reveal

Now we’re getting hands-on. Carving is a subtractive technique, meaning you start with a solid block—of clay, plaster, or even something tougher like wood or stone—and chip, slice, and carve away everything you don’t want.

Imagine a sculptor revealing a figure hiding inside a chunk of marble. That’s the magic of carving: it’s part destruction, part discovery.

3. Modeling: Add and Shape

Modeling is additive, and it’s probably what most people picture when they think of working with clay. You take a pliable material and build it up bit by bit, shaping it with your hands or tools until it starts to resemble your final form.

It’s super flexible—literally—and forgiving. Messed up a nose? Smush it and try again. This technique is great for experimenting and getting creative.

4. Casting: Molding Magic

Casting is like sculpture science. It’s a positive/negative process, meaning you create a mold (the negative), pour in liquid material (like plaster), let it set, and boom—you've got a solid form (the positive) when you pop it out.

It’s a great way to make duplicates or work with more delicate designs. Once you’ve mastered it, casting opens up a whole new level of possibilities.

Final Thoughts

Sculpture isn’t just about chisels and marble statues. As Robert shows, it’s a playground of techniques—build, carve, mold, and cast—and anyone can jump in. Whether you’re crafting with clay or experimenting with plaster, these four techniques are your foundation. So grab some materials and get your hands dirty.

The world of sculpture is waiting!



This two night all inclusive package is $650.00 + GST for up to two people and includes: 

​*Wood for the frame assemblage.


*Clay for carving and modeling.


*Plaster of Paris for casting.

*use of equipment and studio space to create a Cretan Labyrinth

*6 hours direct time, support, guidance and instruction from Robert Christiani, Artist in Residence during the two night stay.

*Two night stay in our authentic Mongolian yurt for up to two guests.

* 6 home cooked meals (2 suppers, 2 lunches, 2 breakfasts) From the country of your choice.

* Snacks and refreshments.


​For more information and available dates please contact our Events Coordinator Sherry Lynn, at journeyhomeartistretreat@gmail.com 
or call 1-(204)- 352-4096.