Portraits 3

About this course

The course develops portrait painting through work predominantly from a life model, supplemented by secondary sources and responses to artists’ work. Participants investigate proportion, skin-tone colour mixing, tone, brushwork and the anatomical structure of the head, including how different viewpoints affect form and volume. Teaching combines talks, demonstrations, practical exercises, individual tutoring and group discussion. The course also examines ways to convey mood, character and expression, while introducing different approaches for making more expressive and experimental portraits.

What you'll learn

• Apply an improved understanding of the head’s anatomical structure when drawing and painting portraits.
• Develop proportion, colour and tone to create a more convincing likeness.
• Use painting and drawing strategies to communicate expression, mood and character.
• Explore how viewpoint and portrait context affect form, volume and composition.
• Respond to artists’ work and adapt relevant approaches within portrait practice.

Is this course right for you?

This intermediate course is intended for learners who have progressed from Portraits 2 or have equivalent experience painting from the figure or portrait. It involves practical work from a life model, alongside discussion, demonstrations and individual tutoring.

• Previous figure or portrait painting experience is expected.
• Learners work predominantly from a life model.
• Optional homework tasks are available between classes.

Before you go

• All drawing and painting materials are provided.
• Advice is available for learners considering investing in their own brushes and canvas.