The Online Club: Lifelike. From a Living Body to a Human Figure
Since the beginning of mankind, we have created human figures in an attempt to understand who we are. How do you depict a living body today?
Two artists share their experiences.
Canadian-born sculptor Blake Ward (b. 1956; lives in Monaco, FR) is drawn to the beauty and grace of the sculpted figure and studied classical techniques to refine his craft. In realising his sculptures, he often collaborates with conceptual artist Boky Hackel-Ward.
Through close observation of anatomy, his focus evolved from idealised physical forms to fragmented and then partial figures, revealing interior spaces that convey our inner landscapes. Later, by incorporating computer-aided design, he pushed the sculpted figure into the twenty-first century, merging tradition with contemporary technology and vision.
The human figures of Bärbel Dieckmann (b. 1961, Bielefeld; lives in Berlin, DE) have a strong physical presence. Her work ranges from realistic individual portraits to expressive standing, squatting, or reclining bodies. When choosing a posture, she observes and empathises with the model, drawing on her experience as an amateur dancer. She also creates mythical figures from Greek mythology, such as the Minotaur, as embodiments of timeless yet contemporary psychological patterns.
Alongside traditional sculpting techniques, she also uses computer programs such as ZBrush and 3D printing. She teaches sculpture from the live model at Scuola di Scultura in Peccia, CH.
The Online Club Lifelike. From a Living Body to a Human Figure is part of a series, preluding Sculpture Network’s International Forum, Bodytalk - The Return of the Human Figure in Contemporary Sculpture which will be held from 29 - 31 October in Berlin.
Hosted and moderated by curator Anne Berk.
Join our Zoom Meeting on Monday, 18 May 2026, 20.00 CEST.
After the lectures get together and networking in smaller groups.
The event will be held in English. Participation is free of charge, all you need is a PC, tablet or smartphone with an internet connection. Please register with the button "Register Now!" on the left of this page to receive the link to the Zoom meeting.
