Narrative Portraits with Michelle Solorzano

In this 2-day workshop with Michelle's guidance, we will create a half-sized bust of a person of your choice. You will learn how to use reference images of a person capturing the front, sides, and back of their head to build a hollow bust using the slab building technique. We will practice sculpting facial features by pushing out the form from the inside and using the additive method to refine. In addition, you will come up with an additional element or elements that aid in the narration of a story using repetition, exaggeration, emphasis and/or abstraction.

850 Pico Blvd
Santa Monica, CA 90405

Saturday, January 11th // 11:00 am - 5:00 pm 

Sunday, January 12th // 11:00 am - 5:00 pm

Michelle Solorzano is a figurative ceramic sculptor whose work explores themes of immigration, identity, and culture, all woven into a narrative shaped by her personal experiences. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting and Ceramics from the State University of New York at Potsdam and a Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics from Indiana University's Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture, and Design. Originally from Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, Michelle relocated to New York with her family when she was fifteen. Her artwork serves as a testament to the diverse tapestry of Dominican heritage, blending Taino, African, and Spanish influences. Now residing in California, working as a long-term Artist in Residence at the American Museum of Ceramic Arts (AMOCA) and sharing her passion for ceramics through teaching.

By enrolling in a class or workshop, you are acknowledging that you have read and understand the safety instructions and liability waiver.

Cancellations made 4 or more days before the start of the class will be refunded. For cancellations made fewer than 4 full days, but more than 24 hours before the start time, a 50% refund or 50% credit toward another class or workshop will be issued. We cannot provide refunds or credits for cancellations or rescheduling requests made fewer than 24 hours before the start time of class, if you miss your class, or arrive too late to participate.

People aged 10 and up are welcome to enroll in this workshop.