Life drawing: experimental approaches

What is the course about?

Introducing a variety of methods for inspiring an innovative and exploratory approach to life drawing. Discover the value of both analytical and experimental approaches and the relationship between them in the drawing process. Learn to explore the role of spontaneity, perception and empathy in creating drawings that express 'aliveness' and a sense of meaning. This course is ideal as a companion to more formal drawing courses and is suitable for enthusiastic beginners as well as those with experience in drawing who wish to refresh their practice or stimulate new ways of working.

What will we cover?

During the course we will begin to explore a variety of ways to stimulate a fresh and innovative response to drawing the figure. There will be guided exercises exploring economy of line, expressive mark-making and the role of imagination. You will be introduced to a range of drawing media and techniques to inspire new directions or support confidence in starting drawing. We will explore a range of artists’ work, as references to the specific exercises taught and for inspiration.

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

- Employ a toolkit of methods and approaches to figure drawing to help you get started or sustain and refresh your drawing
- Gain confidence in identifying the value of both experimental/playful and analytical approaches to drawing
- Demonstrate an ability to employ a range of drawing media.

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

The course is suitable for enthusiastic beginners as well as experienced draughtspersons who wish to refresh their practice or stimulate new ways of working.
You should be able to follow simple written and verbal instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information, and will be invited to take part in group discussion.

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

Through practical drawing tasks with a life model. The class will include ‘warm-up’ drawing exercises, including techniques to focus the mind and enhance concentration. There will be opportunity for group discussion and sharing of individual drawing experiences for those who would like it.

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

Students are welcome to bring additional drawing materials and specialist papers if they wish. All basic drawing media and paper are provided. You may wish to buy a sketch book and drawing materials to practice drawing tasks outside of the class. There is a suggested booklist but it is not essential to buy these for the course.

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

VH811 Life drawing: Introduction to experimental approaches with mixed media
VH757 Life drawing: develop experimental approaches.