Johnny Fraser-Allen came to Toi Whakaari to teach those of us in 2nd year Set & Props a sculpting Masterclass over 3 days. In that time we learned basic to advanced sculpting techniques as went made our own tree creature in a pot. He made one along with us to show us different weathering methods and use his as an example.

We each found our own style in sculpting which really showed in the final products.

Materials used:

• Das clay
• Milliput epoxy clay
• Garden pots
• MDF – base of sculpt
• Wire- internal support
• Aluminum foil – internal structure to save on clay
• Woodland scenic’s leaves/branches

Working order:

1. Ideate and decide on creature to sculpt
2. Cut MDF to fit interior lip of pots
3. Drill hole in MDF to pass wire through
4. Bend wire to form support of general shape
5. Bulk out wire with aluminum foil (packed tightly down)
6. Add clay (Das) on top and start carving texture
   1. Remember to keep clay wet to help smooth it out
   2. Stipple with a firm chip brush after carving in texture
7. After leaving to dry add on Milliput along with scenic parts and blend together
8. Paint (My process)
   1. Painted the sculpture a tan base color
   2. Covered that in a dark green
   3. Applied a Iron Bark color wood stain
   4. Dry brushed a lighter green over entire sculpture
   5. Dry brushed an even lighter green for underbelly of snake parts
   6. Dry brushed a metallic green over entire sculpture except the underbellies of snakes
   7. Painted eyes to resemble snake eyes more
9. To finish add moss using PVA glue and coat with watered down PVA glue to seal