Portraits 1

What is the course about?

Through practical experience we will learn how to represent people in drawing and painting. We will also develop your knowledge of the basic skills and key concepts involved in making portraits. This includes learning about scale and proportion in relation to the human head, use of lighting, tone and colour, and a chance to experiment with drawing, painting and mixed media.

What will we cover?

Working directly from the model we will make observational studies and interpretations. We will learn about composition and key themes from the art historical traditions of portrait making.

We will look at how information can be gathered through sketching, and brought together in a finished piece. There will be short projects around improving observational drawing throughout the course, as well as content structured to your individual needs.

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

• Develop your drawing from observation of the portrait subject
• Use painting techniques and colour mixing relevant to portraits
• Experiment with a range of compositions and make a selection
• Recognise art historical references in portraits.

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

Ideal for beginners but also mixed level.

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.

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

The class will be primarily practical with one-to-one tuition, exercises, demonstrations, informal lectures and group discussions.

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

Paint, brushes, boards and paper are provided. The tutor will advise you if you wish to buy additional art equipment.

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

Portraits 2.