Soft Sculptures: Alebrijes (In Person)

Course description

Learn about the cultural and historical roots of Alebrijes, exploring the fascinating interplay between ancient folklore and contemporary soft sculpture. From mythical creatures to dream-inspired designs, students have the freedom to infuse their creations with individual style, symbolic elements, and personal narratives to add meaning to the soft sculptures.

Gain skills in the basics of soft sculpture, including pattern-making, cutting, stitching, and stuffing to create innovative and unconventional pieces. Embark on an exploration of diverse mediums, examine tactile surfaces and explore non-traditional fiber materials and textile techniques (weaving, textile collage, and felting) to push the boundaries of artistic expression.

Key highlights of this class include folk arts fusion, sculpture fundamentals, and personalized storytelling. By the end of class students have a collection of unique soft sculptures, allowing for a deeper appreciation for the cultural roots and artistic voice embedded in Alebrijes. The first class session includes lecture, material discussion, ideating and sketching.

Open to students ages 16 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration.

Class meeting details

This course meets in person on MCAD’s campus.

Prerequisites

None

Required materials

Supplies for the first class

• pen or pencil
• notebook or sketchbook
• colored pencils or markers
• colored paper sheets
• scissors
• glue stick
• masking tape

Additional Supplies needed throughout the course

• newspaper/craft paper
• armature wire
• quilt batting - 1 yard
• Poly-fill - 1 bag
• fabric:
  • muslin
  • cotton (variety of colors)
  • scrapes
• Beacon Fabri-Tac fabric glue
• sewing needles
• thread (variety of colors) - 1-2 spools
• embroidery floss (variety of colors)

Optional supplies

• acrylic paint (variety of colors)

A complete materials list will be discussed at the first class meeting. Students should expect to spend approximately $60–$70 on supplies in addition to tuition.

Recommended textbooks

• Changing Dreams: A Generation of Oaxaca's Woodcarvers 9780890135051
• Drawn to stitch: line, drawing and mark-making in textile art
• Mixed Media Textile Art in Three Dimensions 9781849946926
• Wild Textiles: Grown, Foraged, Found 9781849947879

Class resources

This class uses Canvas, MCAD’s learning management system. Please see the link for more information.

Class savings

Register on or before January 19 and save $25.
Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).
Additional savings. Are you eligible?

Questions

Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765.