Sketching at the museum: National Gallery

What is the course about?

An introduction to sketching in different areas of The National Gallery. Drawing will be explored in its broadest sense by gathering information through image making, research and interpretation. Enjoy the challenge of expressing yourself in fresh ways through a personal response to the collections and in discussion with the group.
Explore a range of approaches with a variety of drawing media, using experimental mark-making, light and shadow and colour to interpret the paintings on display.
Meeting place will be the Portico entrance inside the National Gallery on Trafalgar Square (after you have been through security - please allow extra time for this)
You will then be given a plan for the day by the tutor.

Please be on time as the tutor can only wait for max 15 mins - please contact Visual Arts if you are running late.
The tutor will have your phone numbers in case they need to get in touch in an emergency.

What will we cover?

Drawing from a variety of paintings from different eras and painted in different styles gives you the chance to explore some of the effects that can be achieved in drawing with pencils: such as use of light/shadow to create volume, and types of mark-making. You will also have a brief introduction to colour.

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

- Draw simple shapes with confidence
- Investigate different methods of drawing
- Achieve confidence to start using a sketchbook
- Start to draw directly from observation of paintings.

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

This course is for you if you are a beginner or:
- You want to learn more about how to draw
- You have not used a sketchbook before
- You need more confidence drawing different things
- You’d like to explore different ways of sketchbook drawing.

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

You will receive individual guidance with some demonstration and group discussion, to enable you to develop your practical work in the sketchbook throughout the day.

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

You will need to bring an A5 or A4 size sketchbook preferably one that opens out flat. Drawing pencils eg HB 2B, 3B, 4B, eraser, pencil sharpener, coloured pencils and/or any other colour materials eg felt tips/pastel pencils etc Please note: no wet materials, scissors or craft knives are allowed in the museum.

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

We run a number of 'sketching at the museum courses' including: Tate Modern, National Gallery, V&A, William Morris Museum, National Maritime Museum and The British Museum
Sketchbook: Ideas, materials, techniques
50 Drawings in a day
Drawing: a Contemporary Approach.