Drawing Figures And Faces From Life - Intermediate & Advanced

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Course code: A78F

Figure and portrait drawing using models

when: From 06 Nov 2026 to 18 Dec 2026
Friday 09:45-12:15 7 weeks
Tutor: Bill Guilding

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £150.00, concession fee £91.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

An opportunity to practise drawing figures and faces from a live model each week using a variety of drawing materials.

What can students expect?

Working with a different model each week (clothed, nude, or in portrait), you will develop your skills in drawing the human figure and face, focusing on shape, proportion, light, and shade. You will have the opportunity to experiment with a range of drawing media, including colour when appropriate, such as when the model is in costume. 

The tutor will provide guidance throughout the course and demonstrate techniques to help you explore a variety of approaches and develop your own style. Compared with Bill’s “Life Drawing-Mixed Ability” courses, the poses in this course will be held for longer periods, allowing for more detailed and sustained studies.

Late starters allowed?

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

Previous experience required?

Yes, some experience of drawing from live observation is recommended.

What is the progression route?

Learners can enrol on other drawing courses at Stoke Lodge.

Are there any extra costs?

Yes. Learners supply own materials and equipment. In addition, a model fee of £36 (6-week course) or £42 (7-week course) for the whole course to be paid in cash to the tutor during

Work set between sessions?

No, but it can be set if requested.

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>A3/A2 white drawing paper or an A2 sketch pad</li>
<li>HB or B pencil</li>
<li>Eraser</li>
<li>Pencil sharpener or knife</li>
<li>Willow charcoal sticks</li>
<li>2B graphite stick chunky, not the plastic-coated, pencil-shaped type</li>
<li>Masking tape, drawing clips, or bulldog clips</li>
<li>£36 (6-week course) or £42 (7-week course) cash model fee</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: 

<ul>
<li>A biro/ball-point or fine-tip black pen</li>
<li>Coloured sugar-paper (to use with white chalk, pastels or charcoal) </li>
<li>Coloured pastels or Conté crayons</li>
<li>Coloured water-soluble pencils </li>
<li>A tube of black, white and brown water-based paint</li>
<li>A couple of brushes (1 fine pointed-for lines, 1 broad-for areas)</li>
<li>Anything else you feel like drawing with.</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>