Drawing Figures In Mixed Media: Intermediates & Advanced Summer School

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Course code: P56D

Mixed-media figure-drawing for intermediate and advanced levels.

when: From 24 Aug 2026 to 26 Aug 2026
Monday Tuesday Wednesday 10:00-13:00 one week
Tutor: Bill Guilding

where

location to be advised

fees

full fee for this course £76.00, concession fee £47.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

A three-day summer school exploring mixed-media figure drawing using pastel and paint from both nude and clothed models.

What can students expect?

You will develop your figure-drawing skills by focusing on shape, proportion, light, and shade—while working with far more than just pencil. You will explore a range of drawing techniques demonstrated by the tutor, including charcoal, pen, biro, pastel, crayon, and paint (watercolours or acrylics), with most activities introduced by a short demonstration. In each session, you will produce several drawings, with most poses lasting 20–40 minutes. While accuracy has its place, it won’t be our primary focus. Instead, we will explore different kinds of mark-making and the expressive qualities of each medium. As always, Bill will encourage you to build confidence in your own unique artistic “handwriting.”

Late starters allowed?

This is a short course, so it is best to attend in full.

Previous experience required?

Some experience in life drawing is required for this course, but no previous experience with painting or using pastels is needed.

What is the progression route?

Other drawing and painting courses, especially Life Drawing.

Are there any extra costs?

Yes, learners supply own materials. In addition, a model fee of £20 is payable in cash to the tutor in the 1st session.

Work set between sessions?

No

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>Sticks of willow charcoal (not charcoal pencils). Processed charcoal blocks are acceptable but harder to erase</li>
<li>Soft, chalky coloured pastels; you can borrow some from the tutor if needed</li>
<li>2 or 3 sheets of A2 white paper</li>
<li>2 or 3 sheets of coloured paper (sugar, pastel, or parcel). Hobbycraft sells an A3 pad for £2</li>
<li>Model fee of £20 in cash</li>
</ul>

Teaching method/style?

Predominantly practical, supported by guidance and feedback from the tutor.

Equipment Required

See box 8. In addition

For the second session please bring:

<ul>
<li>Watercolour or acrylic paint: black, white, brown, ochre, and blue</li>
<li>Three paintbrushes: one fine, one broad (15–20 mm), and one medium</li>
<li>White plate or palette</li>
<li>A3 or A2 white paper suitable for painting</li>
</ul>

In addition, you may bring any of the following if you have them: 

• coloured pencils or crayons 
• black biro/ballpoint pen, fine gel pen, or felt-tip pen 
• fine-tipped coloured felt pens 
• chunky graphite stick 
• Oil pastels

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>