Drawing into painting

What is the course about?

During the course you will investigate the possibilities of relating drawing with painting. You will explore how the two activities contrast, yet potentially support each other. Experience the related formal language of drawing and painting approaches, and how this facilitates the progression from drawing into painting.

What will we cover?

• Exploring strategies for relating drawing to painting, including working from observation; exploring abstract marks, gesture and composition.
• The role of drawn studies as an aid to preparing for a painting.
• Combining drawing and painting approaches to produce a developed piece of work.
• Reflecting on how drawing and painting can facilitate the development of a personal creative process.
• Relevant examples of work from both historic and contemporary artists will be explored and discussed.

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

• Use drawing as a preliminary step towards painting.
• Use drawing as a means of decision-making and problem-solving in a painting.
• Identify and explore the relationships between drawn and painted marks.
• Combine drawing and painting to explore and interpret your own work.
• Recognise the approaches of selected artists who investigate the relationship of drawing and painted marks within their practice.

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

For beginners in painting with some drawing experience, or those who wish to explore the relationship between the two disciplines.

You should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may be encouraged to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.

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

• Studio-based practical tasks
• Tutor demonstrations
• One to one guidance
• Presentations and group discussion.

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

Basic materials and resources are provided as part of this course, including drawing media, acrylic paint, brushes and paper. A small notebook for making notes/sketches (no larger than A4) is advised, although not essential.

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

There are a number of courses to follow on to, including, 'Painting 1', 'Painting 2', ‘Large-scale Drawing and Painting’, 'Ways into Abstract Painting', Ways into Landscape Painting’.