How to Draw - Beginners

About this course

The course introduces drawing through warm-up sketches, mark-making and observation of simple still-life arrangements. Participants develop their understanding of proportion, perspective, light, shadow, tone and texture while working with pencil, charcoal, graphite and pastels. Teaching combines step-by-step exercises with ongoing individual feedback. Sessions explore how different materials respond to pressure and paper, and how techniques such as shading and tonal contrast can describe form.

What you'll learn

• Use warm-up exercises to explore mark-making
• Draw simple still-life subjects from observation
• Apply basic proportion and perspective
• Use light, shadow, tone and shading to represent form
• Experiment with pencil, charcoal, graphite and pastel techniques

Is this course right for you?

The course is designed for complete beginners and for learners revisiting fundamental drawing skills. No previous experience is required. Participation involves structured individual drawing exercises from still-life set-ups, with guidance and feedback from the tutor.

Before you go

• Paper, charcoal, pastels and pencils are provided.
• Charcoal and pastel can be messy, so washable clothing is recommended.
• Protective aprons are available.