Anatomy Masterclass:
Take your anatomical knowledge to the next level
Our Anatomy Masterclass is the perfect opportunity to put theory into practice and take your artistry to the next level. Building upon the foundational knowledge acquired in our Anatomy Lectures, this course focuses on the practical application of that knowledge.
What we offer
Artists use the term écorché (“skinned”) to describe a sculpted figure whose muscles are stripped off skin and whose muscle layers are partly shown down to the bone. The écorché figure often serves as a reference in the artist’s atelier. In Figura students build their own écorché as it is part of their classical figurative art education.
Our Anatomy Masterclass will give you a solid understanding of the human form. In this series of three masterclass-weeks, you will construct an écorché, a three-dimensional representation of the underlying skeletal and muscular system, allowing you to explore the intricacies of human anatomy in a practical and hands-on way.
The Anatomy Masterclass is part of our Complete Sculpture Program, a part-time, two-year program that covers all the essential aspects of figurative sculpture.
This Anatomy Masterclass is a natural follow-up to the Anatomy Lectures, our theoretical anatomy course for artists.
MASTERCLASS 1 | SKELETON
Proportions and gesture of the skeleton.
Blocking in bones and structure, focusing on the major masses.
Learning how to recognize landmarks and what makes them landmarks.
Going into the skeleton.
MASTERCLASS 2 | CORE MUSCLES, SHOULDER GIRDLE, NECK, HEAD
Working from the center out through the extremities with focus on construction and rhythms.
Develop and understand the overlaps of the larger muscles groups.
MASTERCLASS 3 | UPPER AND LOWER ARM AND LEG, HAND AND FOOT
Consider the connections between muscle, tendon and bone.
Develop the understanding of volume and overlaps.
Explore the concavities and convexities.
Review the sense of unity by considering the body parts as a whole.
What you will learn
Constructing a three-dimensional écorché sculpture to explore the intricate skeletal and muscular system of the human body
Understanding the anatomical connections between bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments
Gaining a deeper knowledge of muscle origins, insertions, and functions
Developing a heightened awareness of muscle forms, volumes, and surface details
Understanding the importance of proportions and gesture of the skeleton
Analyzing the écorché sculpture as a reference for future figurative artworks
Calendar
7-11 November 2026
27 February - 3 March 2027
12-16 June 2027
Timetable
weekend: 10.00 - 17.00 h
Monday - Tuesday: 9.00 - 16.00 h
Wednesday: 9.00 - 12.00 h
Weekly anatomy lectures are happening from 16.45 till 18.45 h on the following Tuesdays:
Your investment
Complete Anatomy Program: 2.325 euro
This investment covers your place in a three-part intensive, a rare opportunity to learn anatomy by building it. Your tuition covers:
Three intensive courses (80 hours) guided by expert instructors.
Weekly anatomy lectures (40 hours)
Personal feedback by classically trained instructor.
The fee covers expert instruction, materials, and, most importantly, the creation of your own finished écorché sculpture, which serves as an invaluable, permanent 3D reference tool for your entire artistic career.
Paul Richer, artistic anatomy (recommended) Elliot Goldfinger, human anatomy for artists (obligatory).
What our students say
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The anatomical knowledge [...] has given me a deeper understanding of what is underneath the skin which is relevant to sculpting and a sound sense of how the structure of the human body determines the gestures. It definitely improved my observation skills and I’m very satisfied. This workshop has exceeded my expectations!
Hadass Shuve
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Ik ben er van overtuigd, zoals in elk vak, dat die basis gewoon helemaal in orde moet zijn. En dat je daarna kan freewheelen.
Arien
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Classical studies are like a building block, a good base. I think you should be able to be correct. Once you know the rules of anatomy you can break them, and go beyond.. But you can break rules only if you know them.
Tom
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I like that you understand what happens with such a body. It's not just about creating a beautiful line, but also, why does that line appear? What can I do with that line? Understanding where it originates from and why it finds peace in a pose, thát's what I enjoy.
Mieke
FAQs
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While it is recommended to have completed or be concurrently enrolled in our Anatomy Lectures, individuals with a strong foundation in anatomical knowledge may still join the Anatomy Masterclass. However, having prior knowledge from the course will enhance your understanding and application of anatomical principles in creating écorché sculptures. Feel free to contact us regarding eligibility and suitability for the Anatomy Masterclass.
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An écorché is a term commonly used in the field of figurative art and sculpture. It refers to a representation or sculpture of a human (or animal) figure that depicts the anatomical structure with the muscles and tissues exposed. The word "écorché" itself comes from the French word meaning "flayed" or "skinned," reflecting the visual appearance of the sculpture. Écorchés are often created to study and understand the underlying anatomy and musculature of the human (or animal) form.
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Our Anatomy Masterclass is designed to cater to students of all skill levels, including beginners. We do recommend following our Anatomy Lectures. Our experienced instructors provide step-by-step guidance and ensure that the course material is accessible and comprehensive, making it an excellent starting point for those new to sculpting.
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We provide all the necessary materials and tools for the Anatomy Masterclass, including oil based clay, basic sculpting tool, the armature, anatomical references, and models. You don't need to worry about bringing anything specific, as we aim to create a fully immersive and well-equipped learning environment.
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Absolutely! Our instructors are committed to providing individual attention and guidance to each student. Throughout the anatomy masterclass, you will receive personalized feedback, constructive critiques, and valuable insights to help you improve your sculpting skills and achieve your artistic goals.
Sign up here:
Join our Anatomy Masterclass and embark on a sculpting adventure that will shape your artistic future!
We will contact you with more information and will seek to help you decide your best route to mastery.