Cotemporary Portraits Course: London

Contemporary portraits

Looking at contemporary portraits for inspiration, we will use a variety of exciting approaches to portrait-making including painting, reverse tones, collage, and exploring the relationship between the artist and the sitter.

(average based on 2 reviews) » Write a review of this course

» View full course outline

Key course information

Dates
13/01/12 - 10/02/12

Day(s)
Fri

Duration
5 weeks

Time
10:00 - 17:00

Fees
Full fee: £187
Senior fee: £112
Concession: £83

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

» View location

Course code
VH542

Availability
This course has finished

This course has finished

» Find another course in Visual arts » Search all courses

Still got questions?
visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or call 020 7492 2700

Course outline

What is the course about?

Artists have painted the human head in different styles and for a variety of reasons throughout art history. Looking at contemporary and recent (20th century) portraits for inspiration, we will use a range of exciting approaches to portrait-making. This can include distortion or exaggeration of forms and/ or colour, abstraction and the psychological portrait. Identification of personal contexts and interpretation are important for making a portrait, using the model as a springboard from which you can use your imagination and build your own idea.

What topics will we cover?

The course will begin with specific exercises designed to encourage flexibility and an imaginative approach. We will explore a range of ways of making portraits, including from observation, from memory and from a combination of both. You will use methods like blind drawing, reverse tones and a symbolic and/or expressive use of colour, combining collage, text and painting. Later in the course there will be an opportunity to spend longer developing an idea in relation to the model, or building upon previous work.

By the end of this course you should be able to:

- attempt a portrait in a variety of different styles
- feel more aware of expression and meaning when making a portrait
- select appropriate media and methods for making a portrait
- observe and criticise the work of a variety of artists.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

A willingness to try something new, and some experience of drawing and painting, would be helpful, though not essential.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

By demonstration, practical projects, handouts, one-to-one tutoring and group reviews.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

Art materials are provided. Later in the course you may be asked to bring magazines, fabric and photographs of people of interest to you.

Do I need to have an interview before I can enrol?

No.

What feedback will I get?

You will receive regular feedback from your tutor throughout the course, as and when appropriate. At the end of the course you and your tutor are asked to assess the progress you have made.

How will I be able to give my views on the course?

Please complete the evaluation form at the end of your course. These are monitored and help us to continually improve our courses.

How do I find out if I can get some support for my learning?

You may be interested in: education and careers advice; financial and childcare support; disability support; support for Deaf and hearing-impaired students; dyslexia support; English and maths support; counselling, and library services (supported learning centre). To find out what may be available to you, and how to apply, see page 213 of the 11/12 course guide, or visit www.citylit.ac.uk/students

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Information and Advice Shop, open Monday to Friday 12:00 – 19:00 during term time, and Monday to Friday 12:00 – 17:00 out of term time. See the course guide for term dates and further details.

Who can I contact for further information?

Tel: 020 7492 2700

visualarts@citylit.ac.uk

Please email us for advice or call us during these times:

Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays - 9.00 -12.00 & 15:00-18:00

Thursdays - 9.00-12.00

Saturdays - 14.00-17.00

To enrol on a course, call 020 7831 7831.

Contact us

Visual arts