Oil painting: focus on portraiture

About this course

The course develops portraiture from initial drawing into oil painting, with learners working mainly from observation of portrait models. Activities include studying proportion and head rotation, improving the representation of three-dimensional form, exploring composition and preparing a painting surface. Learners also practise mixing portrait colours and handling tone, while examining the work of traditional portrait artists for reference. Teaching combines practical demonstrations, tutor demonstrations, one-to-one tuition and group discussion.

What you'll learn

• Draw portraits with more accurate proportion and tone
• Represent heads from different viewpoints with a stronger sense of three-dimensional form
• Apply compositional principles to portrait studies
• Prepare a surface for portrait painting
• Mix colours from observation for portrait work
• Improve the depiction of tone in oil portraits

Is this course right for you?

The course is open to learners at all levels and uses a mixed-ability format. It is intended for people who want to study traditional portrait drawing and painting through observation, with practical demonstrations, individual tuition and group discussion. Previous life or portrait drawing experience is described as an advantage rather than a stated requirement.

• Suitable for learners across a range of levels
• Some previous life or portrait drawing experience may be useful
• Work is primarily based on observing portrait models

Before you go

• All basic materials are provided.
• Learners may wish to buy a canvas or board for the oil-painting element; the tutor will advise on this during the course.