Sculptural life drawing

What is the course about?

Each session begins with a demonstration introducing a sculptural material and ways of using the life model as a central point of reference. After observing the model, you’ll ‘draw’ using sculptural materials such as wire, clay slip, or casting media — translating 2D drawings into 3D form. You’ll also explore drawing into metal plates and casting from them, and learn how to create monoprints. Technical demonstrations are interwoven throughout the class to support and inspire your creative process.

What will we cover?

You’ll explore inventive drawing techniques that encourage an open and experimental approach to creativity, helping you develop your own artistic voice. Through practical, hands-on sessions, you’ll gain experience with sculptural materials and learn how to translate your 2D drawings into 3D works. You’ll be supported through group discussion and one-to-one tuition to develop confidence and originality in your work.

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

• Use life drawing in new and experimental ways, transforming 2D drawings inspired by the life model into 3D sculptural forms.
• Gain confidence in your creative process and extend your ability to use a range of sculptural materials and techniques.
• Develop a more experimental and personal approach to combining drawing and sculpture.

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

This course is designed for complete beginners — no prior experience is required, only a willingness to experiment.

Those with an existing creative practice are welcome and will be supported to develop new approaches to life drawing and the transition from 2D to 3D work.

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

You will be fully supported by a specialist tutor. Teaching methods include demonstrations, practical activities, one-to-one feedback, and group discussion.

There is no formal work required outside of class, though keeping a sketchbook is encouraged to record ideas and development.

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

There are no additional costs — all essential materials and equipment are included in the course fee.

We recommend bringing:

• A sketchbook and pencils for notes and sketches at Tate Modern.
• A camera or smartphone to document inspiration during your visit.

For your safety in the City Lit sculpture studio, please wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes (no sandals or open footwear). We also suggest wearing old clothes or bringing overalls, as studio work can get messy.

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

The City Lit sculpture department offers a wide range of exciting courses that will allow you to progress from beginner to advanced and learn a range of techniques. After this course, you may wish to join a similar course to develop your skills further or try something completely different. We offer courses in prop making, metal, clay, carving in stone and wood, mould making and casting, and much more! Alternatively, you may wish to progress onto the year-long City Lit Sculpture course VU841, which helps you build your individual sculpture practice.

Please ask your tutor for advice, browse the City Lit website for inspiration, or contact our visual arts team by emailing visualarts@citylit.ac.uk or calling 0203 880 2415 Monday - Friday, 11 am - 4 pm. 

The in-person information desk (at our Keeley Street campus) is open Monday - Friday from 12 pm - 1:55 pm & 3 pm - 5 pm. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday from 10:30 am -12 pm & 3 pm -5 pm. General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday between 12:00 - 13:55 & 15:00 - 17:00. In-person enrolment is supported Monday - Friday between 10:30 - 12:00 & 15:00 - 17:00