Sketching at Tate Modern

About this course

Participants use sketchbooks to respond to paintings, sculpture, photography, digital art, installations and mixed-media works in Tate Modern. The course treats drawing as a way to gather information, research artists’ practices and interpret artworks through personal responses. Exercises explore quick sketching, mark-making, line, tone, pattern, texture, colour, light and shadow, as well as volume, form, scale and spatial relationships. Individual guidance, group discussion, a handout and an itinerary support the practical work, with time for reflection on each participant’s sketches and interpretations.

What you'll learn

• Sketch objects and artefacts from observation
• Experiment with different drawing methods and media
• Use line, tone, pattern, texture, colour, light and shadow to interpret artworks
• Apply sketching as a form of research
• Interpret and reinterpret works from the collection through personal responses

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for beginners, including learners who have not used a sketchbook before. Participation involves individual guidance, group discussion, self-reflection and sketching in a public gallery setting.

• Suitable for learners exploring what drawing can include
• Includes discussion and feedback alongside individual sketchbook work
• Designed for sketching and looking at artworks in a museum environment

Before you go

• Bring an A5 or A4 hardback sketchbook, preferably one that opens flat.
• Suggested materials include 2B, 4B and 6B pencils, coloured pencils including white, a rubber, sharpener, biro or fine liner, and other portable, clean drawing materials.
• Coloured or tonal paper may be useful with colour materials.
• Wet materials, craft knives and scissors are not allowed in the museum.