Sculpting: meaning, definitions and examples

Sculpting is used when creating three-dimensional forms from materials like clay, stone, or wood, focusing on artistic expression and detail.

• She spent hours sculpting a detailed statue of a dancer.
• He is known for sculpting life-like animal figures.

Carving typically refers to cutting or chiselling material, especially wood or stone, into a specific shape or design, often with intricate or decorative designs.

• My grandfather enjoys carving wooden toys for his grandchildren.
• The artist is carving a beautiful pattern into the marble.

Modeling involves forming or shaping a malleable material like clay or wax to create a prototype or a detailed representation, often used in art, design, and industrial contexts.

• She is modeling a bust in clay for her art class.
• Architects frequently use modeling to create structures before building the real ones.

Shaping is a general term that can refer to forming or creating a particular form or structure in a material, and it's often used in a variety of contexts such as art, manufacturing, or even fitness.

• The blacksmith is shaping the metal into a horseshoe.
• She's been shaping her pottery on the wheel all afternoon.

This word is best used to describe the process of creating three-dimensional art, typically from materials like stone, metal, or wood. It emphasizes artistic intention and creativity.

• She spent hours sculpting a beautiful statue from marble.
• The artist is well-known for his skill in sculpting lifelike figures.

This term is most appropriate when talking about cutting or chiseling away material, often wood or stone, to create a design. It implies manual effort and precision.

• He enjoys carving intricate designs into wooden panels.
• The artisan was carving an ornate pattern into the stone doorway.

The use of this word is best suited for creating a representation or replica of something, often in clay or another malleable material. This can also refer to creating prototypes or designs in various fields such as fashion or architecture.

• She's modeling a clay figurine for her art class.
• The architects are modeling the new building using a 3D software.

This general term can be used to describe forming or molding something into a particular shape or form. It's less specific and can apply to a variety of activities, from pottery to metalwork.

• The blacksmith is shaping the hot metal into a horseshoe.
• She is shaping the dough into small rolls before baking.