Painting Portraits course London: City Lit

Painting portraits with light and shade

Understanding light, shade and colour are crucial concerns for the portrait artist. Learn how to paint forms of the head and face, and explore possibilities for mood and atmosphere using a tonal structure.

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Key course information

Dates
12/02/12 - 18/03/12

Day(s)
Sun

Duration
6 weeks

Time
10:30 - 16:30

Fees
Full fee: £224^NC

Venue
KS - Keeley Street

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Course code
VM601

Availability
This course has finished

^NC: No concessionary fees available as there is no government funding for this course.

This course has finished

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

Course outline

What is the course about?

This course explores painting portraits with a particular emphasis on the use of light and tone. We will look at how to approach a 'tonal' painting, looking at a wide variety of artists as diverse as Rembrandt and Bonnard. The use of tone in painting is an important device for artists as it helps to create form and has often been used to evoke a strong mood, emotion or atmosphere.

What topics will we cover?

Working directly from the model, we will make observational studies in paint with an emphasis on light and tone. We will also look at the work of various artists to learn how different mark-making techniques can produce lively and expressive painting.

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

1) Paint the portrait head with improved accuracy
2) Understand better how to use light and tone in painting
3) Convey atmosphere through a suggestive use of light and dark
4) Understand how to create three-dimensional space.

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

Though some drawing and painting experience is preferable, beginners who enjoy a challenge are welcome.

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

Talks, practical work, demonstrations, individual tutoring and group discussion.

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

All drawing and painting materials are provided.

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?

Advanced portrait painting. Portraits: drawing the self. Life painting.

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