An Introduction to Life Drawing

Overview

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to life drawing, equipping learners with the fundamental skills required to observe, interpret, and accurately represent the human form using a medium of their choice. Through a series of practical studio based exercises, learners develop confidence in drawing from direct observation while exploring proportion, anatomy, gesture, structure, and expressive mark-making. Learners build a portfolio of work that demonstrates their ability to capture the human figure through sustained observation and informed creative practice. While the course maintains a strong practical emphasis, learners are also encouraged to engage critically with both historical and contemporary approaches to figurative representation. This contextual research supports a deeper understanding of the evolving role of life drawing within artistic practice.

Programme

During the course, learners will cover the following:

• Structured and progressive study of drawing from the life model, developing observational skills, accuracy, proportion, anatomy, gesture, and expressive interpretation of the human form.
• Individualised guidance and demonstration of techniques by the tutor, alongside group instruction designed to support skill development and creative confidence.
• Collaborative group discussions, critiques, and peer assessment activities that encourage critical reflection, constructive feedback, and he sharing of ideas and approaches.
• Practical tutorials providing feedback, academic support, and guidance on technical, conceptual, and professional development.
• Independent and self-directed study, enabling learners to extend their practical investigations, undertake contextual research, and refine their portfolio and visual diary outside of taught sessions.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this module, students should be able to:   

1. Create observational artwork from the life model that demonstrate some understanding of proportion and a basic skill in handling the medium used by the student.
2. Plan, compose, and bring to completion a full figure of the life model made from direct observation.
3. Demonstrate a developing awareness of tonal and chromatic values and be able to implement these using whichever medium preferred by the student.
4. Demonstrate some awareness of the significance of figure painting and drawing to historical and contemporary art practice.

 Assessments

1. Portfolio to include dated life drawings or paintings to show development as well as supporting material including art historical/contemporary study. (100%)

Reading Suggestions

Additional reading list available on request.

Entry Requirements

This course is for everyone. No previous experience is needed and there are no formal entry requirements.

What Do I Need?

A list of materials, not included in the course fees, will be available prior to the course start date.