Portrait Painting Short Course

About this course

Working from a model, participants begin with observational drawing focused on the structure and anatomy of the skull, then apply these studies to a sustained portrait painting. Studio sessions examine shape, form, light, contrast and proportion in relation to the head. Lectures use examples of portrait painting to support the practical work. Topics include composition, palette selection, colour mixing, colour relationships, creating light and form through colour, and the use of mark and touch.

What you'll learn

• Analyse the structure and anatomy of the skull in relation to portrait painting
• Use observational drawing to study shape, form, light and contrast
• Apply proportion and composition when developing a painted portrait
• Mix colours and explore relationships between colours within a portrait palette
• Use colour, mark and touch to describe light and form

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for learners aged 18 and over at all levels. It is suitable both for students with previous painting experience who want to develop further and for beginners seeking guidance with painting a head.

• Suitable for learners with different levels of painting experience
• Includes studio work from a model and sustained individual painting
• Aged 18 and over