Life painting: experimental approaches

About this course

Participants will develop varied responses to painting the figure from life, working with expressive mark-making, composition, colour and imagination. The course considers how analytical and intuitive methods can inform one another, with references to artists’ work providing context for exercises and new approaches. Teaching combines tutor talks, group discussion, guided activities and one-to-one support. Learners will also examine their own paintings and make informed decisions about how to develop them.

What you'll learn

• Apply varied methods to refresh and sustain a life painting practice
• Experiment with analytical and intuitive approaches to painting from life
• Use expressive mark-making, composition, colour and imagination in developing paintings
• Evaluate personal work and respond to the work of others

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for Improver-level learners with some life drawing experience who want to explore less traditional approaches to painting from the life model. Participation includes guided exercises, group discussion, tutor talks and individual support, with optional homework tasks.

• Some life drawing experience is expected
• Designed as a companion to more traditional life drawing and painting courses
• Includes both group discussion and one-to-one support

Before you go

• Basic materials are included.
• Learners may bring their own brushes or canvas; the tutor can advise.
• Homework tasks are optional.