Face to Face: Draw and Paint Portraits

About this course

Learners explore portraiture through drawing and painting from a model, alongside self-portraits and transcriptions of selected artists’ work. The course covers proportion, anatomical structure, form, tonal contrast and colour theory, with opportunities to use acrylic and/or oil paint. Most sessions are spent making work, supported by weekly lesson plans, self-directed options and tutorials. Group discussion and short lectures examine artists’ work, while sketchbook journalling provides a way to record ideas related to portrait projects.

What you'll learn

• Assess proportions, structure, form and facial features in a portrait
• Apply drawing and sketching techniques across a range of media
• Use light and shade to model three-dimensional form
• Reference portrait artists from different periods
• Maintain a sketchbook journal for portrait projects

Is this course right for you?

The course is listed at Beginner level, although its entry guidance recommends learners with some drawing and/or painting experience who want to focus on portraiture. It also explicitly welcomes returners and offers a combination of self-directed work, tutorials and group discussion.

• Suitable for learners returning to drawing or painting
• Includes group discussion and short artist-focused lectures
• Advanced learners are encouraged to develop their own style

Before you go

• The classroom is accessible only by stairs and has no lift access.
• Bring a notebook, sketchbook, pen and pencils to the first class.
• The tutor will provide a materials list as the course progresses.