Cubist Clay Portrait

Sketch different perspectives

Ask your students to sketch a cubist style portrait on a piece of drawing paper. Remind them the key attributes of the cubist style and make sure they are aware that the portrait should be an abstract representation and include multiple features from multiple viewpoints. When finished with their portrait sketch have them break up each feature into a separate drawing. Example: Shape of face, nose, eyes, ears, hair etc.

Roll slabs

Using a slab roller or rolling pins roll out a slab of AMACO® clay approximately 1/4" thick.

Transfer drawing to clay

Have the student lay the drawing of the individual features on top of the slab of clay and trace each shape onto the clay with a pencil or end of brush. The pressure from the pencil will transfer the outline onto the slab.

Cut out Face

Cut Out Features

Apply texture

Apply different textures to each piece/shape of clay. Use the AMACO® Texture Slab Molds to create intricate cultural patterns or simply apply textures using found objects or other clay tools.

Layer pieces

Score the main piece where the features will attach. Also score the back of the individual features.

Score and use vinegar to attach

Brush small amount of vinegar (used instead of slip for attaching) on scored places and attach.

Ready for drying and glazing

Once all of the pieces are reassembled, each student should have a cubist style portrait that resembles their original sketch on paper but now in 3D relief made of clay.

Apply underglaze

Next, have the students begin applying AMACO® Velvet Underglazes or AMACO® Liquid Underglazes to different areas or features. The underglazes can be applied directly onto the wet clay prior to bisque firing. Choose colors that will cause the various features and planes to recede or pop as desired.

Fire

Once completely dry, bisque fire all of the portraits to a witness Cone 04.

Video