Seeing through Painting and Drawing

About this course

Participants investigate how observation informs drawing and painting through exercises based mainly on still life, with occasional work from a human model and outdoor drawing when conditions permit. The course covers line, shape, proportion, relationships between objects and surrounding space, composition and tonality, alongside colour development and mixing. Teaching combines level-appropriate exercises, experimentation, individual verbal feedback and informal group critiques. Learners also work with the tutor to develop a Personal Learning Plan that helps focus their goals and review progress.

What you'll learn

• Analyse line, shape, proportion, spatial relationships, composition and tonality in drawing subjects.
• Apply drawing and painting techniques through still life, figure and outdoor observation exercises.
• Use different drawing and painting media for exploratory and developed studies.
• Mix colours and distinguish between hue, value and saturation.
• Evaluate work through individual feedback, discussion and group critique.

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for improvers and requires some prior knowledge of art materials, tools and techniques. Learners work both independently on exercises and projects and collectively through discussions and informal group critiques. It is aimed at adults aged 19 or over.

• Some prior knowledge of art materials, tools and techniques is required.
• Participants are expected to share work in informal group critiques.

Before you go

• Paper is available to buy in class.