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Review by Hugh Thomson
Some members of OWCA were privileged to attend a “hands on” symposium conducted by Fred Zavadil at Humber College on April 12 and 13. This was an awesome opportunity to enjoy Fred’s outstanding teaching, which was augmented by the presence of his wife Hana. For 10 members, including the famous Bert Hirt, it started in the morning and each attendee fabricated an armature of copper tubing held together by self-tapping screws. As an example for us, Fred had drawn a male standing upright (50 cm) and this was the model to be copied by all or almost all. The armature was then coated with gray plasticine, using the drawing for measurements, although one member used red, which caused some ongoing contamination problems for Fred’s hands and tools. All tools were supplied as part of the registration fee. As the class progressed, Fred passed from member to member teaching in turn all aspects of sculpture modelling. Some of us were more difficult students than others, but that is to be expected!
On the second day, various aspects of improvement were added including clothing in some cases. All in all, we had a “delicious” teaching experience with a “take-home” sculpture to show off. What a treat to be taught by one of North America’s great carvers. He was recently featured in the British Woodcarving magazine (#102) which demonstrates some of Fred’s great artistry – we can hardly wait for his next symposium and I am sure there will be standing room only for ticket purchase!
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