Figure Sculpture Practice vs. Rendered Work: Which One Actually Makes You Better?
Quick sculpting exercises vs. finished, rendered sculptures — what each one teaches you, and why
26 August 2026 Sculpting Tips
Skip to the content Join me in the studio for hands-on figure sculpting workshops in Wellington and Sydney. Through live-model sessions, head studies, and simplified-figure training, you’ll get real one-on-one feedback as you build your skills, grow in confidence, and find new ways to capture the human form in clay — whether you’re just starting out or already sculpting.
Next dates
WELLINGTON
September 26 & 27 2026
WELLINGTON
September 27th – 28th
SYDNEY
February 6th – 7th 2027
SYDNEY
February 6th – 7th 2027
Duration: 2 days
Level: This workshop is ideal for beginners and intermediate sculptors. If you struggle with proportions or anatomical distortions, you’ll find the step-by-step approach especially helpful and rewarding.
WELLINGTON
September 26 & 27 2026
WELLINGTON
September 27th – 28th
SYDNEY
February 6th – 7th 2027
SYDNEY
February 6th – 7th 2027
No dates organised yet
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Learning to sculpt the human figure can feel overwhelming for beginners, as intricate details often draw attention away from capturing the overall essence.
In a relaxed, friendly environment, Javier encourages students to embrace a creative approach while focusing on breaking down the human body into basic geometric shapes.
This structured method allows students to understand the body’s mechanical structure and develop a natural feel for weight, balance, and proportion in their work.
No dates organised for 2025
Duration: 2 days
Level: This workshop is one of the best ways to learn the key principles for keeping your work proportionate, and for developing a stronger understanding of balance and posing. So regardless of your experience, if you struggle with these areas, you’ll find this workshop especially valuable.
Javier leads 5-day figure sculpting workshops with a live model across New Zealand and Australia, guiding students step by step through translating a pose into a 750mm clay sculpture — developing skills in gesture, structure, and balance along the way. With hands-on guidance throughout the room, students gain confidence, sharpen their technique, and explore their own artistic voice in a focused, creative environment.
Next dates
WELLINGTON
November from 23rd to 27th 2026
WELLINGTON
November from 23rd to 27th 2026
SYDNEY
February from 8th to 12th 2027
SYDNEY
February from 8th to 12th 2027
Duration: 5 days
Level: You’ll find a lot of value in this workshop, no matter your level of experience. It’s one of the most effective and enjoyable ways to learn the human figure. Be prepared for a challenging and rewarding journey — many students return again and again because they find it both fun and worthwhile.
WELLINGTON
November from 23rd to 27th 2026
WELLINGTON
November from 23rd to 27th 2026
SYDNEY
February from 8th to 12th 2027
SYDNEY
February from 8th to 12th 2027
Immerse yourself in the enriching experience of in-person sculpture workshops led by the artist Javier Murcia. With nearly three decades of industry experience, Javier offers expert guidance to elevate your sculpting skills and navigate the intricacies of a successful artistic career.
His workshops provide a deep dive into the fundamental principles of constructing the human figure, encouraging hands-on exploration in a vibrant, supportive environment. Each workshop empowers you to create tangible art while nurturing personal development and enhancing self-understanding, making every session truly transformative.
Not necessarily. The more experience you bring, the more you’ll get out of it — but Javier is an experienced sculptor who adapts to your level, whether you’re just starting out or already established, and whether your goal is building anatomy fundamentals or pushing into a more artistic challenge.
In-person workshops are scheduled in different places at different times of the year. Most workshops run twice a year in different locations in New Zealand — Auckland being the most demanded of the locations — and also Australia.
Tools aren’t included in the price of the workshops. Clay may or may not be included, depending on the specific workshop — this is shown next to the “Book Now” button for each one. If clay isn’t included, you’re welcome to bring your own or buy some on the day. The same goes for tools: Javier usually brings enough for everyone, and students consistently find them great to work with.
Not sure which format is right for you?
Quick sculpting exercises vs. finished, rendered sculptures — what each one teaches you, and why
In 2023, I was invited to join the team at Weta Workshop to help build
If you don’t have much experience, you might be tempted to mix materials. Before you
