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Renowned Artist Joel Shapses Teaches Stone Sculpture Series at Marco Island Center for the Arts


Joel Shapses | Naples 2Night Digital Magazine

Art lovers and aspiring sculptors will have a unique opportunity to learn from a master of the craft as acclaimed sculptor Joel Shapses returns to the Marco Island Center for the Arts (MICA) to lead a new series of hands-on stone sculpture classes.


“Whether you’re new to sculpture or looking to refine your skills, these immersive classes are designed to inspire creativity and help students create their own original work of art,” says Shapses, who has been teaching at MICA for four years.


The Stone Sculpture with Joel Shapses course welcomes participants of all skill levels, whether they bring a work in progress or start fresh. Students will experiment with materials such as alabaster, soapstone, and other soft stones available for purchase at the Art Center. Shapses provides expert, hands-on instruction in the fundamentals of subtractive sculpting, guiding students through the process of transforming raw materials into stunning three-dimensional objects or bas relief pieces.


What You’ll Learn

Throughout the course, Shapses will cover essential techniques, including:

  • Understanding different stone types, their properties, and selecting the right tools.

  • Carving, finishing, and polishing techniques to achieve professional results.

  • The principles of sculpture, exploring what defines exceptional sculptural design.


Class Schedule & Details

Classes take place at Marco Island Center for the Arts, located at 1010 Winterberry Drive, Marco Island, every Tuesday from 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM. The four-session course is priced at $135 for MICA members and $165 for non-members. By the end of the course, students will leave with their own polished sculpture and newly developed stone carving skills.


2025 Class Schedule:

  • January 7, 14, 21 & 28

  • February 4, 11, 18 & 25

  • March 4, 11, 18 & 25

  • April 1, 8, 15 & 22


To register, students may sign up in person, by phone at (239) 394-4221, or online at www.marcoislandart.org. Spaces are limited and filled on a first-paid, first-served basis, so early registration is encouraged.


About Joel Shapses

Joel Shapses is celebrated for his mastery of marble, bronze, and alabaster sculptures. His work is characterized by fluid, organic forms and a remarkable ability to evoke movement and emotion from solid materials. He draws inspiration from nature, often exploring themes of transformation, balance, and the interplay of light and shadow.


Notable works by Shapses include Genesis, a mesmerizing strawberry alabaster sculpture, and Balancing Point, an elegant piece crafted from Portoro and Carrara marble. Over his distinguished career, Shapses has earned 85 awards, including the National Sculptors Guild’s Excellence in Sculpture. His works are featured in prestigious galleries, private collections, and cultural institutions worldwide, solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in modern sculpture.


The Joel Shapses Studio and Gallery

Located in the Naples Art District, the Joel Shapses Studio and Gallery showcases stunning sculptures, paintings, and ceramics. Founded by Shapses, the gallery also features works from notable artists such as architect/painter Richard Diedrich and painter/ceramicist Joan Eshkenazi. The gallery is open on the first Thursday evening of each month, select Saturday afternoons from 1 PM – 5 PM, and by appointment. For more information, visit www.joelshapsesstudio.com or call (954) 830-3156.


About Marco Island Center for the Arts

The Marco Island Center for the Arts serves as a vibrant hub for the local arts community, offering diverse exhibitions, educational programs for all ages, and an array of cultural events. The center supports visual and performing artists by providing exhibition, performance, and teaching opportunities, while also fostering economic growth and cultural diversity. To learn more, visit www.marcoislandart.org or call (239) 394-4221.


Collaborator Credits: Kathy Prutos | Photo Credit: Joel Shapses Gallery


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