Way Too Cool Arts and Science Institute will instruct the students on the different types of stone available in Belize, their geological origins, qualities, and uses. We will use stone in common and unique construction applications such as furniture, gift items, and sculpture. During the two year course, the student will become proficient in many ways of possibly becoming self-employed using these artistic skills.

Openings: 20 students
Duration: 4 Semesters
Requirements: English verbal skills, basic math skills
Skills Taught:

• measurement tools
• tool safety, use and care
• stone geology
• cutting, grinding, polishing
• sandblasting
• joinery
• mosaic
• stone construction

Semester 1
The first semester will acquaint the student with the tools used to cut and polish stone. He/she will become very proficient at using all types of measurement tools, and all safety rules will be thoroughly understood. At this point, we will look at the different types of stone.

Although we will explain all types of stone available, we will only concentrate on those found in Belize. We will also explore the ways these different stones were formed in the earth, the qualities such as hardness and cleavage (the way the rock splits), and the uses of each type.

The students will get ample practice using the tools to cut, bullnose, polish, and join flat stone materials to use in furniture and gifts. They will also learn to select and assemble uncut stone in construction applications. Mosaics will be taught on both a large and small scale.

Semester 2
The second semester will include instruction in the more artistic endeavors involving stone. We will explore the uses of sandblasting and joinery in art pieces, design will be explained and demonstrated in conjunction with other materials in special construction applications, and in art and gift items.

Semester 3
Third semester studies will give the students an introduction to stone sculpture, providing extended practice with chisels, grinders, and polishing equipment. The students will also perfect the other skills learned as we teach more complicated mosaic, inlay, sandblaster carving techniques, and mixed stone/wood/metal/glass construction applications.

Semester 4
The fourth semester will be the most fun. The students will get the chance to learn from several visiting stone artists of the highest level. Each student will design and create several works under the shop masters' supervision. This is the time during which the tricks of the trade are honed to the level of “stone artist,” prior to graduation.