The production of sculpture divides into two main categories: one works with additive techniques, while the second applies subtractive approaches. Subtractive sculpture is the oldest form of sculpture and involves removing material, as e.g. in wood carving. The artist begins with an existing solid material and begins removing material bit by bit until the intended outcome is achieved. This course focuses on the subtractive process of carving in wood and stone and/or the use of reductive thinking as a creative tool to explore sculptural forms.

Reductive thinking and the inherent irreversibility of the process will be the basis to explore methods of producing a sculptural form in wood and stone. The course will first focus on bass relief and letter carving as a method of exploring the transition from two- to three- dimensional form. Students will investigate how form can be revealed through different carving approaches and techniques, including the use of working models as well as the transition from sketch to plan and from plan to final work. Fluency in wood and stone carving will require further practice beyond the course's duration; this course intends to lower the access thresholds, familiarise the students with principal tools and techniques, and point towards solution strategies for future personal practice. 

This course focuses on skill-based training, yet the project assignments within the courses nonetheless require students to also articulate creative ideas and integrate different skills into a well-planned creative strategy.

The final works will be executed in wood and stone to experience both systematic and intuitive methods for producing a three-dimensional form.