"The fundamental purpose of any work whether it is painting or sculpture
is to raise consciousness and intensify awareness."   Tom Bass

Catavento Sculpture Studio came out of my love and pursuit for sculpture combined with a desire to create and share a space that would offer a nurturing and inspiring atmosphere to creativity. Having experienced the richness of group environments for its shared stories, silences and warmth, to extend it to all ages, experiences, backgrounds and interests became an important part in the making of Catavento Sculpture Studio. Students are encouraged to find their own path within this enriching group situation. Set amongst old trees, the historical barn that houses the studio invites pause as a response to a lifestyle which has taken us further away from being able to access and express our creativity.

Classes of sculpture from clay to mould making and stone carving are continuous throughout the year in which tuition has the role of making the language of sculpture available in the process of translating one's observations and imagination into a three-dimensional form.

Since 2005, the Sculpture Teacher at Catavento has been Michael Pfahl - founder of Catavento Sculpture Studio - who has had a lifetime interest in design and sculpture. He commenced studying with Tom Bass in 1997 and set up Catavento Studio as a result of Tom's inspiration. During the past few years he has continued studying under different teachers and has been awarded several prizes in sculpture competitions.

A basic training in design, gained from studies in architecture and landscape architecture, has motivated Michael to continue working with shape and form in the realm of sculpture. Drawing has also played an important part in this process and has occupied a large part of Michael's learning. He says "It is necessary to really see and observe intricacies within form, and drawing contributes to one's ability to do this".

Various works reflect the diversity of individuals and possibilities. From that came the idea of introducing short courses by visiting artists in life drawing, stone carving and painting. They are available throughout the year at various dates, time and costs to be arranged and informed according to the artist's attainabiliity.