We are thrilled to announce a new week-long immersive Puppetry Masterclass, titled Large Scale Puppetry Process, Logistics, and Delivery, to be held at Spare Parts Puppet Theatre in July. Our guest artist for 2024 is Joe Blanck, Founder and Creative Director of A Blanck Canvas.
About
Large scale puppetry is a multifaceted craft that blends artistry with practical considerations. In this immersive 5-day class, participants will delve into the intricacies of creating and delivering large scale puppets that captivate audiences while adhering to stringent safety standards and budgetary constraints.
Masterclass Program
Day 1: Design Requirements – Understanding the foundational aspects of puppet design is crucial to a successful project. Participants will explore key considerations such as the target audience, performance venue, scheduling logistics, budget constraints, and the overarching purpose of the puppet creation. By the end of the day, attendees will have a clear vision of what they aim to achieve and the parameters within which they must work.
Day 2: Construction – With design parameters in place, participants will delve into the practicalities of construction. This involves selecting suitable materials based on factors such as durability, flexibility, and visual aesthetics. Collaborating with a team, attendees will embark on the physical realization of their puppet designs, learning techniques for structural integrity and effective assembly.
Day 3: Construction Continued and Art Finishing – Building upon the progress made on Day 2, participants will refine their creations with attention to detail. This includes adding artistic flourishes and embellishments that elevate the visual appeal of the puppets. From intricate paintwork to custom fabrications, attendees will learn how to infuse their creations with character and personality.
Day 4: Rehearsals – Assembling a team is only the first step; effective coordination and rehearsal are essential to bringing the puppet to life. Participants will work collaboratively, honing their movements and interactions to ensure seamless integration between puppet and puppeteer. Every member of the team, regardless of their role, plays a crucial part in realizing the collective vision.
Day 5: Performance – The culmination of days of preparation, the final performance showcases the collective effort and ingenuity of the entire team. Participants will take to the stage, demonstrating how meticulous planning, skilled craftsmanship, and collaborative teamwork can yield extraordinary results. Through this shared experience, attendees will gain invaluable insights into the transformative power of large scale puppetry as a form of artistic expression and entertainment.
Special Guest Artist – Joe Blanck
From street artist to scenic artist, now creature designer, builder and producer, Joe spent six years at Creature Technology Company on productions including Walking with Dinosaurs, How to Train Your Dragon, and KING KONG before co-founding A Blanck Canvas.
Wildly passionate about 2D and 3D art forms; design, building, sculpting and painting, illustration, directing, puppet creation, manipulation, performance, as well as integrations with technology and art, he is the driving force behind all of A Blanck Canvas’ creatures becoming reality.
Joe guides the A Blanck Canvas team to deliver end to end large productions, from concept to technical to delivery, performance and finishing.
Masterclass Details
Date: 15 – 19 July 2024
Times: 9:00am – 5.00pm, Mon – Fri
Venue: Spare Parts Puppet Theatre, 1 Short St, Fremantle WA
Course Cost: $495.00
Register: bit.ly/SPPTmasterclass2024
Spots for this masterclass are limited, so make sure to secure your place today!
For questions or more information please contact:
Michael Barlow – Associate Director | asd@sppt.asn.au | 08 9335 5044
