Life drawing and movement: explore gesture, rhythm and the moving form

About this course

Participants draw from a life model, working through short pose exercises and more developed studies that focus on movement, rhythm, balance, weight and direction. The course uses gesture drawing to examine how line, mark-making and simplified forms can describe the figure in motion. Teaching combines presentations, demonstrations, guided studio exercises, individual feedback, group discussion and reflection on completed work. Learners also have time to develop a personal project, applying the approaches explored during the sessions to their own drawings.

What you'll learn

• Capture gesture, movement and energy in quick observational drawings
• Use line, rhythm, flow and varied materials to describe a moving figure
• Simplify the human figure into essential forms and actions
• Analyse balance, weight and directional movement in the body
• Develop more fluid compositions based on the moving figure

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners who already have some drawing experience, as well as learners looking to loosen a more established style. The Improver level suggests a focus on developing beyond fundamental drawing techniques through regular practical studio work.

• Learners draw from a life model in short and extended poses
• Sessions include group discussion, peer feedback and one-to-one guidance
• Optional homework may be suggested, but work outside class is not required

Before you go

• There is no need to buy materials before the first session.
• Shared equipment and teaching resources are available.
• Learners who want to bring their own materials can receive recommendations from the tutor.
• Optional homework may be suggested; no work outside class is required.