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Three-Dimensional and Sculptural Form
Quick questions on Modelling and construction explained: N(A)-Level Art
7short Q&A pairs drawn directly from our worked dot-point answer. For full context and worked exam questions, read the parent dot-point page.
What is modelling?Show answer
Modelling is an additive method: you build a form up by adding soft material, most often clay. You can add more, take some away, and reshape as you go, which makes modelling forgiving and good for trying out a form. You push, pinch, smooth and add coils or balls of clay to grow the shape. Because you can keep adjusting, modelling suits learning and experimenting.
What is carving?Show answer
Carving is the opposite, a subtractive method: you start with a solid block, such as soap, plaster, foam or wood, and cut away material to reveal the form inside. The big difference is that you cannot easily put removed material back, so carving needs planning and care. It teaches commitment, and the marks of the tools can become part of the surface.
What are weak clay joins?Show answer
Just pressing clay parts together makes them crack off as they dry. Score the surfaces and add slip to bond them.
What is detail before the big form?Show answer
Fussing over tiny details before the main shape is right wastes effort. Build the large form first, then refine.
What is q1?Show answer
Explain the difference between modelling and carving. [2 marks]
What is q2?Show answer
Explain what an armature is and why it is used. [2 marks]
What is q3?Show answer
Describe how you would join two pieces of clay strongly. [2 marks]
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