Stone carving is the oldest art form, predating written history and existing in every culture. Throughout the centuries, artists such as Michaelangelo, Gian Lorenzo Bernini, and Donatello mastered this art form. In the Italian High Renaissance, stone carvers were exalted, often seeing their mastery as a talent given to glorify God.

Carrying on the centuries old tradition of stone carving, students were given the opportunity to use special stone carving tools to create soapstone sculptures. In connecting with this tradition, students were able to gain an appreciation for the level of skill demonstrated by master stone sculptors.