Portraiture From Life

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Course code: A78D

An opportunity to draw or paint portraits from a life model.

when: From 15 Jan 2027 to 12 Feb 2027
Friday 09:45-12:15 5 weeks
Tutor: Bill Guilding

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £108.00, concession fee £66.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

An introduction to the core principles of portrait drawing and painting, with a focus on achieving strong likenesses.

What can students expect?

Guided by an experienced portrait tutor and artist, you will draw or paint a different clothed sitter each week. 

You may use any drawing medium you prefer-charcoal, pastels, crayons-or, if you are a confident and quick painter, watercolours or acrylics in a drawing-focused approach.

Late starters allowed?

Yes, however it is recommended you join by the second session to make the most of the course.

Previous experience required?

Some previous experience of drawing from observation is recommended.

What is the progression route?

Learners can enrol on painting or drawing courses at Stoke Lodge.

Are there any extra costs?

Yes. Learners supply own materials and equipment. In addition, a model fee of £30 for the course to be paid to the tutor during first session.

Work set between sessions?

No. But the tutor will give feedback on anything learners may choose to do between sessions.

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>2 or 3 sheets of A3 white drawing paper or a sketch pad</li>
<li>Pencil, charcoal or graphite stick </li>
<li>Eraser </li>
<li>Masking-tape or drawing clips or bull-dog clips</li>
<li>Model fee of £30 in cash</li>
</ul>

Most learners use a drawing board on an easel or table-easel, both of which will be provided.

Teaching method/style?

Practice, guidance and feedback. There will also be short demonstrations, guidelines about the structure of faces and plenty of help from the tutor. You will also learn from the work of your fellow learners!

Equipment Required

The following are optional: 

<ul>
<li>Coloured soft/chalky pastels </li>
<li>Coloured paper (sugar, pastel or parcel paper)</li>
<li>Acrylic or watercolour paints. Useful colours for mixing skin-shades are Burnt Sienna, Raw Sienna, Raw Umber & Orange</li>
<li>Heavy paper</li>
<li>Brushes</li>
<li>A palette</li>
<li>Water-jar</li>
<li>Coloured pencils/crayons</li>
</ul>

Course Cancellations and Refunds

If we cancel your course

<ul>
<li>You will receive a full refund of course fees.</li>
<li>We are not responsible for any additional costs, such as materials already purchased.</li>
</ul>

If you cancel

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: refund minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no refund provided.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
</ul>

Refund processing

<ul>
<li>Refunds for online or telephone enrolments will be made via the original payment method within 14 days of approval. </li>
<li>If you enrolled in the office, you will need to come in with your payment card to arrange a refund.</li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>7 days or more before the start date: transfer minus a 10% transfer fee.</li>
<li>Less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: no transfer provided.</li>
<li>All transfers are subject to availability.</li>
<li>Transfers between Language levels may be possible with less than 7 days notice, subject to availability.</li>
<li>Enrolments are non-transferable. If you are unable to attend, you will not be able to send another person in your place.</li>
<li>If we cancel your course, and you wish to transfer to another course this will be free of charge.</li>
</ul>

Illness and non-attendance

<ul>
<li>We recognise that illness and unforeseen circumstances may arise. However, please note that we are unable to offer refunds, credits, or transfers for missed sessions due to ill health or non-attendance.</li>
</ul>