Kevin Kao

Figuring Clay, Serving Face

November 6 - 9, 2025

Open to All Skill Levels

Clay

Overview

This workshop will introduce and explore a variety of methods to create a head in clay. Designed as an workshop for beginners, participants will explore common handbuilding techniques, such as coil-building, slab building, and additive sculpting to render the face along with details such eyes, mouth, ears, and other facial features. Students will use a variety of methods and tools to reference the body and use carving and detailing tools for sculpting form and textures. Students will be encouraged to consider the relationship of form and surface as a way to enhance the perception of the body, identity, and self, and contemplate how the figure is a vessel for human understanding and legacy.

Course Fee : $506.00

Download The Materials List

Scholarships & Material Fees

Need help covering workshop costs? Arrowmont offers financial aid opportunities to broaden access to our arts and craft programs. We believe a diverse community enriches the learning experience for all.

Material fees are not included in our national workshop costs, but are included with the cost of our winter short workshops. A material list with estimated costs will be emailed about 30 days before the national workshop begins.

TUITION & FEES

SCHOLARSHIPS

Cost Breakdown

Registration Fee

$50.00

Weekend Workshop Tuition

$506.00

Estimated Cost*
*Fees exclude housing and meal plans

$556.00

VIEW HOUSING & MEAL PLAN COSTS

Artist Bio

Kevin Kao

Born and raised in California, Kevin Kao is a ceramic sculptor that explores the construction of collective identity through figure, reflection, and multiplicity. His work has been featured in organizations such as The Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento, CA; Atlanta Contemporary in Atlanta, GA; the Kranzberg Arts Center in St. Louis, MO; and the Washington Post. Recent awards include recognition as a finalist in the Young Sculptors Competition at Miami University, the Artist Support Grant from the Regional Arts Commission in St. Louis, and the Warren MacKenzie Advancement Grant presented by the Northern Clay Center in Minneapolis. He has earned a B.S. in Biology – Ecology, Evolution and Animal Behavior from the University of California, San Diego; and an M.F.A. in Studio Art – Ceramics from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. Currently Kao lives and works in Greenville, SC serving as Associate Professor of Art at Furman University.

Artist Website