Sculpture Studio Assistant Internship- M. TannattAt — CSUF - College of the Arts

This internship offers hands-on experience supporting a sculpture professor specializing in contemporary practices that integrate digital fabrication, wood and metal fabrication, clay sculpting and traditional mold-making techniques. The Sculpture Assistant will assist in the development and production of sculptural works, utilizing 3D modeling software, CNC milling, and/or 3D printing alongside silicone, plaster casting processes. The role includes studio organization, clean - up and material preparation, digital file management, and occasional research. Ideal for students seeking practical studio experience and deeper engagement with hybrid sculpture methodologies.

Learning Outcomes  

• By the end of the internship, the student will be able to demonstrate proficiency in using digital tools such as 3D modeling software and digital fabrication equipment (e.g., CNC router, laser cutter, or 3D printer) in the context of sculptural production.
  • By the end of the internship, the student will be able to execute basic and intermediate mold-making techniques, including the preparation and casting of materials such as plaster, silicone, and plastics.
  • By the end of the internship, the student will be able to apply safe studio practices and proper handling of materials and equipment commonly used in both digital and traditional sculpture processes.
  • By the end of the internship, the student will be able to manage digital assets and physical studio workflows to support the iterative development of sculptural projects.
  • By the end of the internship, the student will be able to articulate the conceptual and technical relationships between digital design processes and physical fabrication within a contemporary art practice.

Training  

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Proposed learning outcome will be to provide:
1. one-on-one use of digital modeling software (such as, Blender, or Fusion 360) and digital fabrication equipment to establish foundational skills and confidence using tools.
2. Gain hands-on training with mold-making and casting techniques, including silicone, plaster, and plastic processes, with progressive assignments to build technical proficiency.
3. Offer guided practice sessions where the student assists with ongoing sculpture projects, gradually taking on more responsibility in digital and physical production workflows.
4. Conduct regular feedback sessions to review the student’s work, discuss conceptual and technical development, and troubleshoot in a supportive learning environment.
5. Share curated readings and examples of contemporary artworks and designers using digital fabrication and mold-making, to contextualize the student’s studio work within broader sculptural practices.

Tasks/Duties  

\\The intern will demonstrate the learning outcomes by:
1. Creating and editing 3D models using digital design software for use in fabrication and prototyping processes.
2. Operating digital fabrication tools such as a 3D printer, laser cutter, or CNC router to produce components for sculpture projects.
3. Preparing and executing mold-making and casting tasks, including mixing materials, setting up molds, and finishing casts using plaster, silicone, and plastics.
4. Maintaining a clean and organized studio environment, including proper storage and labeling of materials and tools, in accordance with safety protocols.
5. Assisting with the documentation and archiving of digital files and physical works, including photographing finished pieces and organizing project assets.
6. Participating in regular progress reviews to reflect on their technical skills, conceptual understanding, and creative development throughout the internship.