Drawing into watercolour painting

What is the course about?

During the course you will explore the potential of drawing as an integral part of the process of watercolour painting. You will investigate not only drawing as a preliminary step to set-up a composition but also as an integrated layer within the structure of a composition. You will use drawing as a means of guiding the way you make brush gestures and as a guide to planning colour application in your painting. Relevant examples of work from both historic and contemporary watercolour artists will be discussed.

What will we cover?

• The individual qualities of drawing and watercolour as media and how they can be combined.
• The relationship between drawn marks, areas of tonality and the application of watercolour
• Recognising and using the qualities of directness, intimacy, and portability, which can be specific to both drawing and watercolour.
• Exploring and discussing historical and contemporary context for artists who simultaneously use and combine both drawing and watercolour approaches in their practice.

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

• Identify and explore the relationship between the inherent qualities of drawing and watercolour.
• Use a range of drawing approaches as a preliminary step to planning and developing a watercolour image.
• Use a range of painting techniques with the medium of watercolour.
• Combine drawing and watercolour in a manner where neither medium dominates the other, leading to a creative conversation between the two.
• Recognise the approaches of selected artists who investigate the relationship of drawing and watercolour methods within their practice.

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

This course is for beginners to drawing and watercolour painting, or for those who have some previous experience and would like to try a different approach.

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

This course may be supported by Google Classroom as a Virtual Learning Environment. When you log on you will be able to access course material, presentations, and handouts etc. and may be asked to complete learner progress records. You can find help via the student help centre on the City Lit website.

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, watercolour paint, brushes and paper. Students are welcome to bring any additional specialist materials.

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

There are many courses at City Lit to develop your watercolour painting skills including: Developing Watercolour Painting, Contemporary Watercolour Painting Projects, Watercolour Painting: Mixed-Media Techniques. Your tutor will discuss various options that will be appropriate for you at the end of the course.