Contemporary painting studio

What is the course about?

This course is for students who are ready to develop their own ideas in painting, with reference to the work of contemporary artists and experimental processes. Students should have completed Painting 1 and Painting 2, or higher level courses such as the City Lit Fine Art course, Foundation course or equivalent level courses.
The emphasis will be on the process of development from idea /sketch to finished painting. Informed by contemporary art practice students will be encouraged to expand their approach to making a painting, using research, experimentation, layering of imagery, exploration of materials etc. We will explore different methods of painting with reference to a particular contemporary artist to see how this affects the imagery or contributes to the meaning of the work.
This course offers students higher level guidance with the freedom to explore their own ideas.

What will we cover?

- Source material and development of subject matter: eg. sketchbook ideas, working from photographs and projections.
- Experimenting with image making materials, i.e. paint, drawing materials and mixing media and collage.
- Discussion of the visual language in painting.
- Issues in contemporary painting.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

- Use a sketchbook/photograph as a research tool for a painting/artwork.
- Expand and develop your initial visual ideas using a variety of art materials and processes.
- Make a sustained painting or series of works over several weeks.
- Develop your ability to make decisions about the development of your own work.
- Use the work of current artists as a reference and influence on your own art practice.

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

Not for beginners. Students must be experienced in painting methods up to an intermediate or higher level, and ready to develop their own ideas in painting.

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

There will be practical projects, individual guidance and encouragement, group discussion and examination of artists' work.

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

You will need to bring a sketchbook/ photographs full of ideas, starting points, and plans for your own art projects.

Basic painting and Drawing materials are provided but you may want to bring your own brushes, and canvas or board as the course progresses.

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

Any of the advanced painting classes, including advanced courses such as; the one year 'Extended Drawing for Artists and Makers', 'City Lit sculpture course', 'The year of Portrait and Figure', 'City Lit Fine Art course' and 'Developing Art Practice'.