IADT’s Creative Futures Academy delivers intensive Character Bust Sculpting Programme in Connemara

In December 2025, IADT and Creative Futures Academy, in collaboration with Stiúideo Fia (Connemara) and Cultural & Creative Industries Skillnet, delivered an immersive 5-day Certificate in Character Bust Sculpting. This unique programme brought together emerging and established creatives for an intensive learning experience designed to bridge artistic vision with professional practice.

A Structured Journey from Concept to Creation

Before stepping into the studio, participants engaged in a comprehensive online preparation phase. This structured approach allowed them to develop original character concepts, refine design intent, and gather visual references. By investing time in this preparatory work, students arrived ready to focus on the tactile and technical aspects of sculpting, ensuring that the in-person sessions could concentrate on hands-on creativity, material problem-solving, and industry-standard workflows.

An Industry-Embedded Studio Experience

Hosted at Stiúideo Fia in the heart of Connemara, the programme offered a professional studio environment that mirrored real-world production settings. Over the course of five days, participants transformed their digital and drawn concepts into physical sculptures, tackling challenges of anatomy, proportion, expression, and surface detailing. The goal was not only to produce a finished character bust but also to deepen understanding of the creative processes behind character development for film, television, animation, and other screen-based media.

Led by a Master of the Craft

Guiding the programme was Paul McDonnell, a master sculptor, fabricator, and creative director with nearly three decades of experience in stop-motion, model-making, and visual storytelling. As founder of Stiúideo Fia, Paul has collaborated with award-winning artists across film, theatre, and television, and is widely respected for his ability to mentor emerging talent. His teaching approach combines technical precision with an emphasis on creativity and narrative, encouraging participants to bring their characters to life through craft and imagination.

Celebrating Creativity and Achievement

The week concluded with an impressive showcase of completed character busts, each reflecting the individuality and skill of its creator. Congratulations to all participants for their dedication and artistry throughout this demanding yet rewarding process.

Images: Simon Boyle Photography