Needham Community Education

In this two-week course, student artists will get creative with professional-grade air-dry clay and an array of 3D sculpture materials, mastering the tactile world of form, spanning everything from intricate miniatures to ambitious, large-scale sculptures.

Mornings will focus on ceramic fundamentals—mastering pinch, coil, and slab construction—to build structural integrity in monumental forms and precision in palm-sized details. Students will explore the unique properties of air-dry clay as it cures into durable art, ready for custom finishes.

Afternoons will offer the freedom of an open studio for students to dive deeper into sculpture in other forms. Whether working on individual masterpieces or collaborating on massive collective installations, students will experiment with wire armatures, cardboard construction, paper quilling, and tube sculpture. From delicate jewelry to sculptures that command the entire room, this course will provide the tools to bring any 3D vision to life. 

Note:This class is a two week class, weeks 3 & 4.

Instructor: Meredith Hopkins, Art Teacher, Pollard Middle School

ACTIVE EXPLORATIONS: In addition to the outdoor movement and break times planned by each instructor, students participating in full-day Summer Explorations classes will enjoy a 40-minute active break each day led by highly qualified Needham Public School P.E. and Wellness Instructors. During this time, students will head to the gym or venture outside to get some fresh air and move their bodies. Whether it's a brisk walk around the grounds, high-energy running games and relay races, or exciting team sports and activities, this time is a great way to break up the day, get some energy out, and boost focus for the rest of class!