Swifts and curlews are the iconic birds so long associated with Masham and the Yorkshire Dales. Capture one of these emblems of Yorkshire in some classic Yorkshire stone with stone carver, Gaynor Pearson. Over two days, you will choose your favoured bird, work on your own design or select one of Gaynor’s templates, and then learn how to carve these birds in relief on a block of Yorkshire sandstone or limestone or perhaps a bit of Lincolnshire limestone if you’re not too particular!
Under Gaynor’s guidance you will make these iconic birds your own – carve in shallow or deep relief, bring the birds to life by adding form and movement to it’s wings and body in flight or create a more stylized version in deeper relief. Learn how to add details and finish your pieces either smoothing or texturing with unique chisel marks.
There will be a selection of limestone blocks to choose from – some square cut, some more random shapes. You’re sure to find a block that speaks to you!
Please note there is a £25 material charge payable on the day.
Click on the title below to find a list of what you’ll need to bring with you if anything.
What to expect
Time at ArtisOn is designed to take you away from it all and provide the environment, the time and the guidance you need to create. You can expect a warm welcome, skilled and friendly tutors plus the chance to meet like-minded people keen to share ideas and experiences. You can even leave us to clear up the mess! There will usually be two workshops going on and we encourage everyone to mingle and be nosey about what the other workshop is up to.
Arrive in time to meet other participants over a cup of tea or coffee and biscuits before beginning your session at the appointed time. There will be a mid-morning break for refreshments and a chance to talk over progress with others. Lunch is usually around 12:45 for about 45 mins – you can expect a homemade 2 course lunch. The main course will be delicious but don’t overdo it as the puds are usually worth waiting for! There will be a further afternoon break with the most wonderful cakes from Roots & Fruits Home Bakery, a North Yorkshire micro-bakery producing handmade bread and cakes. All food and refreshments are included in the price of the workshop.
Finish time is given as a target – there are occasions when the session may overrun so do let us know if you need to be away promptly.
We aim for your day to be a real treat… of course you could always learn a new skill in a shed or a draughty village hall with a curly sandwich, but we want you to have more fun than that! So we make it a day being looked after, with good food, good company and great inspiration!
What you’ll need to bring with you
You will be carving a limestone or sandstone block - great stone to carve. You will complete a simple relief carving during the two days - a number of templates will be provided as ideas but if you have your own design ideas, please bring them along.
All tools and materials will be provided but please bring:
- Clothes you don't mind getting dusty or overalls
- Steel toed shoes if you have them or stout shoes
- A sketch book would also be handy
- If you do have any of your own chisels feel free to bring them but please ensure they can be identified
Please note that you will be working outside. We have gazebos to provide cover if it rains. Even though you'll be doing physical work, if it's cold or wet, please bring something warm / waterproof to wear...if it's hot, bring sun cream!
