ALESSANDRO GALLO
CLAY TALES: Realism & Metaphor in Figurative Sculpture
June 28 - July 11, 2026
This immersive hands-on experience in sculpting realistic or stylized figures in clay will tap into both
traditional and nontraditional techniques. The focus will be on two parts equally important to Alessandro’s intricate work. Firstly, hand building the figure solid, the use of metal armature, cutting, hollowing and reassembling and final surfacing all in preparation for a single firing. No less critical, will be the introduction to post-firing finishing, including utilizing a variety of epoxy glues, using accessories and painting the piece realistically after it is fired.
In order to experiment directly on all those levels, every participant will be encouraged to work on two projects: a faster warm-up piece and then a medium-size more challenging and focused project: a 25-inch standing figure. The first figure will introduce technique and, quickly executed, will allow for firing within the first week, thus enabling experimentation on all post-firing techniques in the final three days. Sculpting the medium size figure will be the main focus, although personal projects are welcomed and encouraged.
TUITION: USD $2500 inclusive of all studio materials, glazes and firings, catered lunches, welcome dinner, and excursions around the island. We will assist in making recommendations for bookings for nearby hotels, bungalows or home-stays in convenient proximity to Gaya studio (accommodation is not included in tuition).