Drawing Figures & Faces-Beginners

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Course code: A78E

Introduction to drawing portraits: creative techniques and skills.

when: From 26 Feb 2027 to 19 Mar 2027
Friday 09:15-12:15 4 weeks
Tutor: Bill Guilding

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £105.00, concession fee £63.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

A 4-week course exploring figure and portrait drawing. Two sessions use photographs and two use a clothed model. Working mainly in pencil, this course is suitable for beginners.

What can students expect?

You will start by learning the basic principles of figure drawing, focusing on the shapes and proportions of the human body. Your tutor will demonstrate observational drawing techniques to support your learning. 

You will initially draw figures from photographs of dancers, acrobats, and athletes to understand movement and form. In the second half of the course, you will draw from a live model dressed in plain, close-fitting clothing, applying the skills you developed in earlier sessions.

You will spend more time drawing full figures than faces, with simplified facial features that emphasize head turns and tilts rather than fine details.

You will mainly use a pencil, but you may also choose to work with charcoal or coloured pencils if you wish.

Late starters allowed?

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

Previous experience required?

No.

What is the progression route?

Learners can enrol on other drawing courses, in particular, the “Life Drawing-Mixed Ability” course at Stoke Lodge.

Are there any extra costs?

Yes. Learners supply own materials and equipment. In addition, a model fee of £12 for the course to be paid in cash to the tutor during first session.

Work set between sessions?

No, but it can be set if requested.

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>A normal HB or B pencil </li>
<li>An eraser</li>
<li>Several sheets of A3 size white paper</li>
<li>Model fee of £12 in cash</li>
</ul>

Teaching method/style?

Practice, guidance and feedback. There will be short demonstrations and plenty of support from the tutor. Additionally, you will benefit from learning through the work of your fellow learners!

Equipment Required

Optional extras: 

If you wish, you may use charcoal, graphite-stick or coloured-pencil.

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>