About
This course reintroduces the Archimedean solids through a new methodology, emphasizing the unseen internal spaces that belong to this foundational set of polyhedra. It explores how these thirteen shapes not only relate to their platonic origins but also exist in an active relationship with each other.
This expansive approach challenges the way that these forms have been conventionally understood and opens new doors for creative exploration.
Here students will be led through a hands-on process of nesting Archimedean forms within each other while observing how the angles within each form must be adjusted to accommodate different arrangements. Attendees will construct nets of a unique group of intermediary shapes and develop skills in ruler, compass, and paper craft to aid in future experimentation.
Through constructing these forms by hand students will gain a unique understanding of the internal composition of the Archimedean system, its parts, and their relationships as they may benefit fields of sculpture, architecture, and 3D design.
Key Information
Who is this course for?
You must be aged 18 or over to participate in our programmes.
To gain the most from the course, the tutor recommends that you:
- are familiar with the basic composition of the five platonic solids. No prior knowledge of the Archimedean Solids or related systems is necessary, but is welcome.
- know how to construct the following regular polygons with a ruler and compass: equilateral triangles, squares, pentagons, hexagons, octagons, and decagons. For reference, see Jon Allen’s excellent book, Drawing Geometry.
To clarify, this is not a hard maths class. This course is a hands-on study and emphasizes learning through the direct experience and observations of the student rather than numerical calculation.
What days do I attend?
Monday – Friday, 14 – 18 July 2025, 10:00 – 16:30
How many students can attend?
14 people
Where will this course take place?
This course will take place at our studios at The King’s Foundation School of Traditional Arts, 19-22 Charlotte Road, London EC2A 3SG.
What should I bring to class?
Students should all bring:
- one full size compass
- one medium or small compass (but not a bow compass)
- 2H pencils (mechanical is best)
All other materials will be provided in the class.
Wear comfortable clothing that you do not mind getting slightly messy. Avoid wearing baggy clothing (especially sleeves), loose jewellery, high heels or open-toed shoes.
FAQs
Do you offer concessions?
Yes, we offer concessions for full-time students and Seniors/60+. Concessions cannot be applied in retrospect. To receive a concession, please apply via our online form. We will then send you a discount code to use when booking your space.
Terms & Conditions
The School reserves the right to discontinue or suspend a Course up to fourteen (14) calendar days before the advertised start date of the Course. This course requires a minimum number of enrollments to run.
The School may take and use images of you and/or your work for course advertisement and social media purposes.
Our normal terms and conditions apply.
Tutor Biography
Thomas Codol completed his MA in Traditional Arts at the school in 2024, specializing in the spacial geometry and curvilinear pattern. His work continues a family tradition of invention and intuitive design that goes back 5 generations. An avid traveler and lifelong student of world traditions, he prioritizes first-hand experience as a primary component to his creative practice. He studied Islamic art and architecture history at SOAS in 2014-15 and completed his BA in Japanese studies at the University of San Francisco in 2011. Thomas continues to conduct original research at his studio in South Dakota.
