Martin Cooney Stoneworks School

Learn the timeless craft. Create work that lasts forever.

At the Martin Cooney Stoneworks School, we believe every artist’s path begins with a single strike of the chisel—and grows through mentorship, practice, and vision. Our progressive program is designed to guide sculptors from first-time students to accomplished professionals.

With intentionally small class sizes, students receive personalized instruction, hands-on training, and full access to our world-class carving facilities. Here, centuries of stone-carving tradition meet contemporary innovation, creating an environment where passion is transformed into craft, and craft into art.

About the Classes

We offer classes tailored for beginners, intermediate, and advanced sculptors. Before each course begins, individual Zoom consultations help set clear expectations, review safety protocols, and outline the aims and goals of the project.

Whether students come with a clear vision of what they want to carve or are seeking guidance, we work with them to select projects suited to their skill level, physical ability, and prior experience. This personalized approach ensures that every student feels both challenged and supported as they progress.

Beginner Classes

Learning the Basics to get started.

Class Size: Limited to 4 students for personalized instruction

Intermediate Classes

Beginners Banker Masonry Course

Class Size: Limited to 4 students for personalized instruction

Advanced Classes

Master the art of Masonry

Class Size:Limited to 2 students for maximum one-on-one guidance

Beginner Classes

Course Duration Options:

One-week intensive program
Two-week comprehensive program

Pre-Course Preparation
Individual Zoom consultation with instructor to:

Establish personal introductions
Set clear expectations
Review safety protocols
Discuss project selection and templates
Determine appropriate stone block dimensions

Project Development

Students may bring their own design concepts or we can help with project selection
Customized assistance in matching skill level with appropriate projects

Equipment and Resources

Complete set of hand tools provided for student use
Traditional hand-carving techniques only — no power tools in beginner classes
Option to rent or purchase professional-grade hand tools
All necessary safety gear provided

Teaching Philosophy
Our hands-on approach emphasizes:

Immediate student engagement with materials
Practical, guided experience over passive observation
Goal-oriented instruction focused on project completion

Program Objective
Students leave with:

A finished sculpture they can be proud of
Fundamental sculpting skills and techniques
Understanding of safety protocols
Confidence to continue their sculpting journey

Class Size: Limited to 4 students for personalized instruction

Enrollment Information
For course dates, tuition, and application details, please contact us here.

Intermediate Classes

Beginners Banker Masonry Course

The making and applying of templates is a critical skill, one steeped in history and applied logic.

Course Duration Options:

One-week intensive program
Two-week comprehensive program

Pre-Course Preparation
Individual Zoom consultation with instructor to:

Establish personal introductions
Set clear expectations
Review safety protocols
Discuss project selection and templates
Determine appropriate stone block dimensions

Project Development

Students create original designs or adapt existing templates
Instruction in incorporating complex shapes, negative space, and fine
detail
Guidance in scaling up projects for size and ambition

Equipment and Resources

Full set of hand tools and optional use of select power tools
Training in:
– Undercutting
– Advanced curvilinear shaping
– Fine surface finishing and polishing
Specialized chisels and rasps available for rent or purchase
All safety gear provided, with emphasis on dust control and ergonomics

Teaching Philosophy
We focus on:

Independent decision-making in design and technique
Advanced problem-solving for technical challenges
Efficiency and workflow refinement
Balancing artistic vision with technical execution

Program Objective
Students graduate with:

A more ambitious sculpture demonstrating intermediate techniques
Enhanced tool handling and finishing skills
Greater creative independence
The ability to plan and execute complex projects

Class Size:Limited to 4 students for close mentorship

Enrollment Information
For course dates, tuition, and application details, please contact us here.

Advanced Classes

Course Duration Options:

One or two week intensive program
Eight-week professional apprenticeship

Pre-Course Preparation

Submission of a detailed design proposal, including drawings,
models, or 3D mock-ups
Individual Zoom consultation with instructor to:
- Review artistic portfolio and readiness for advanced work
- Select stone for both aesthetic and structural qualities
- Plan logistics for large-scale projects
- Review advanced safety protocols for extended and heavy work

Project Development

Students work on a self-directed, large-scale or highly complex sculpture
Guidance in:
– Structural integrity and weight distribution
– Advanced surface treatments
Critiques and peer review to refine execution and presentation

Equipment and Resources

Access to professional-grade hand tools and full range of power tools
Training in:
– Large block reduction techniques
– Precision splitting of complex curves
– High-polish and textural contrast finishing
Use of industrial lifting and handling equipment
Instruction in installation methods for indoor and outdoor display

Teaching Philosophy
We focus on:

The instructor becomes a mentor, focusing on:
Fostering a distinct personal style
Solving complex structural and artistic challenges
Preparing for gallery, public, or commissioned work

Program Objective
Graduates will:

Complete a professional-quality sculpture for exhibition or sale
Demonstrate mastery of advanced carving techniques
Build a portfolio suitable for gallery representation or commissions
Work independently at the highest technical and creative levels

Class Size:Limited to 2 students for maximum one-on-one guidance

Enrollment Information
For course dates, tuition, and application details, please contact us here.