Model-making Techniques Course

A 5-day intensive, practical course covering model-making skills for theatre, film, animation or spatial design. Led by David Neat. Deptford, London

‘Model-making Techniques Course Online’

I’ve been running the online version of my original course since the beginning of 2021. The next online courses in 2022 will be …

February 28-March 4,  April 25-29,  June 20-24

Back in 2020 I had to postpone all my studio courses until the future became more ‘foreseeable’. I consulted what the other larger course providers in London (such as University of the Arts and City Lit) were guaranteeing in terms of safety and, the fact is, I couldn’t provide the same .. my studio room is not big enough for ‘1metre+’ distancing for example, whatever other precautions are taken. In short, it was too risky, and unfortunately as I update this now in January 2022 .. it still is!

Having run the online course a number of times now, I’m very pleased to say that it’s working pretty well! For example, many of the participants have asked me whether I would consider doing a ‘follow-up’ course. There’s no denying that it’s a different experience from spending a week with others in a dedicated workspace, but I have done my best to make it feel as if you are.

For example all of it is real-time ..everything is live, with no recordings! The week will be the same 5-day block as the original course, starting on the Monday at 10.00 am as it usually does, and each of the five days will end around 5.00 to 5.30 pm. It’s important to retain that kind of focus! One of the most important parts is that I send each confirmed participant a Course Pack containing almost all of the materials you’ll need for the week’s work (you’ll just have to get a few other easy-to-get ones). You’ll need to have your own basic tools but I’ll be including in the parcel the special ones (such as specially made sanding tools) for you to keep, and they’ll be included in the price. The pack will also include all the worksheets and info handouts I’ve provided in the past. These are handier to have on paper. I’m very conscious of the fact that computer screens can become too cluttered if things like this are sent as files, and my aim is to keep your visual connection with the group as clear as possible, especially at times when we can discuss things, and I will be consciously enabling those times throughout each of the days. On the other hand, it’s also important in this situation to make the most of what the online ‘environment’ can offer, so I’ve set up a Course Resources folder on OneDrive which everyone can access during the course and afterwards. This contains all the illustrative photos I use, including reference photos for the practical exercises, in addition to step-by-step written accounts of these exercises for either recapping later or catching up if course time is missed.

My teaching method has not had to change very much. We will be talking together, when I am introducing a subject or explaining an activity; at other times I will be demonstrating what to do using a ‘document camera’, which provides a very clear, well-lit and undistorted view. The third resource is screensharing photos of prepared examples and other visual references. The rest of the time .. the majority of it ..you will be working. I’ve still to fully solve how clearly or quickly I’m able to ‘look at’ what everybody’s doing all the time to offer feedback, but I’ve been working with the participants on ways to improve this. So far smartphone snapshots sent directly to my email has proved by far the best solution.

The full week’s teaching including the tools and materials I send, and the info resources I’ve set up, will cost £250. To try to preserve the feeling of ‘group’ I limit the number of participants to 10 people. If you have the kind of internet connection which has usually given you a clear image and sound when using things like Zoom or Skype, then I’m assuming there’s no problem from your side. Having a second camera, so that you can switch from yourself to your cutting mat, may be very beneficial but so far we’ve coped without them.

Here are some excerpts from the new course publicity …

David Neat is a professional maker with more than 35 years experience in theatre, film, 3D design, architecture and exhibitions. He is a practicing sculptor and qualified teacher; author of ‘Model-making: Materials and Methods’ a comprehensive, interdisciplinary book on model-making and, since 2012, his instructional WordPress site http://www.davidneat.wordpress.com

David’s emphasis in these workshops is on accessible techniques of building, modelling/shaping, surfacing and finishing relevant to designers and makers in various disciplines. All is as live and as ‘actual’ as possible, with minimal recorded content. There is a focus on ‘realism’ in representation, geared more to theatre and film work, but the aim in keeping the course solidly materials-based is to provide just as much of relevance to model-making for other disciplines such as interior design. Each session will offer a wealth of information, supported by specially prepared examples and worksheets, and clarified through demonstrations and practical exercises.

Main areas covered include: –
methods of constructing or shaping with card, plastics and foams, for basic architecture and detailed scale furniture; modelling with soft materials and relief media; mouldmaking for casting; achieving various realistic surface/texture treatments and paint finishes.

Materials are sent in a ‘Course Pack’, including some specially made tools, but participants need their own basic equipment at home. Each will contribute their own varied knowledge and talent, making this a valuable opportunity to discuss and compare personal experience. Whether a beginner, or with more of a hobby interest, or a professional seeking more specific guidance…this unique course will help you on your way.“

See also what people have said about the original course on the ‘reviews’ page in the drop-down menu attached to this one, and see feedback about the online course in online course ‘reviews’ which you’ll find in the main (black) menu bar. For anything else, including a more detailed description of the online course including the daily schedule, contact me at  davneat@aol.com