Introduction To Portrait Drawing

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Course code: A81D

A practical course designed to develop the skills needed to capture the human face with accuracy and expression.

when: From 24 Feb 2027 to 24 Mar 2027
Wednesday 13:00-15:30 5 weeks
Tutor: Roma Widger

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

A beginner-friendly course that uses life models to help develop observation, drawing, and shading skills while exploring proportion, facial features, and capturing a likeness.

What can students expect?

The course covers the fundamental principles of portrait drawing, including head construction, facial proportions and shading techniques. 

Drawing from a different clothed sitter each week, you will learn how to map and draw key facial features such as the eyes, nose, mouth and ears, while gaining an understanding of facial anatomy and structure. 

Through observation and practice, you will explore the use of tone and value to create form, depth and realistic dimension, transforming drawings into lifelike and expressive portraits

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, however, previous experience of drawing from observation is useful

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 in cash to the tutor during first session.

Work set between sessions?

No, but practice is encouraged.

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>White A3 cartridge paper pad</li>
<li>Tinted pastel paper pad (optional)</li>
<li>Pencils (HB–6B)</li>
<li>Charcoal sticks</li>
<li>Charcoal pencils</li>
<li>Rubbers (putty, ordinary, fine-line)</li>
<li>Ruler</li>
<li>Masking tape</li>
<li>Apron or old shirt</li>
<li>Paper clips or bulldog clips</li>
<li>Model fee of £30 in cash</li>
</ul>

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.

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>