I Wish I Could Draw People! Figures And Faces. Beginners & Intermediates Summer School

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Course code: F55C

Figure and portrait drawing from photographs and a clothed model.

when: From 27 Jul 2026 to 29 Jul 2026
Monday Tuesday Wednesday 10:00-13:00 one week
Tutor: Bill Guilding

where

Stoke Lodge

Stoke Lodge Centre, Shirehampton Road
Stoke Bishop
Bristol
BS9 1BN

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 for anyone who wants to learn how to draw figures and faces—or improve their existing skills. Drawing is from photographs in Sessions 1–2 and from a clothed model in Session 3.

What can students expect?

The course will cover:

<ul>
<li>Session 1: Proportions of the human body and the angles of limbs. You will draw figures from photographs of dancers, gymnasts, and athletes</li>
<li>Session 2: Proportions of the head and how to draw a face from different angles. Working from photographs, you will draw faces in front view, side view, and three-quarter view</li>
<li>Session 3: Drawing from a live, clothed model</li>
</ul>

We will not have time to explore portraiture in the level of detail it requires. Therefore, in Session 3, the turn or tilt of the head will be prioritised over specific facial features—such as the precise shape of the nose or the expression of the mouth.

Late starters allowed?

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

Previous experience required?

This course is for beginners and those with some experience who would like to improve their skills.

What is the progression route?

Other drawing and painting courses, especially Life Drawing or Portraiture.

Are there any extra costs?

Yes. Learners supply own materials. In addition, a model fee of £8 is payable in cash to the tutor in the 1st session.

Work set between sessions?

No

What should students bring?

<ul>
<li>HB or B pencil </li>
<li>Eraser</li>
<li>Sheets of A3-size white paper </li>
<li>Model fee of £8 in cash</li>
</ul>

Teaching method/style?

Predominantly practical, supported by short demonstrations and individual feedback.

Equipment Required

See box 8 above. In addition: 

For the third session when we draw from a model

<ul>
<li>Sticky-tape, blu-tac or bull-dog clips</li>
</ul>

Optional: charcoal or graphite-stick or coloured pencils.

Refunds and cancellations

Course Cancellations by Us

<ul>
<li>If we cancel your course, your fees will be refunded in full.</li>
<li>We cannot reimburse the cost of any materials you may have purchased. </li>
</ul>

Cancellations by You

<ul>
<li>If you cancel 7 days or more before the course start date: Refund issued minus a 20% administration fee.</li>
<li>If you cancel less than 7 days before the start date or after the course has started: No refund will be issued. </li>
</ul>

Transfers

<ul>
<li>Transfers must be requested at least 7 days before the course start date.</li>
<li>A 10% transfer fee applies.</li>
<li>Transfers due to our cancellation of your original course are free of charge. </li>
</ul>

Illness and Absence

<ul>
<li>No refunds are available for non-attendance due to sickness or ill health. </li>
</ul>

How Refunds Are Issued

Refunds are returned via the original payment method:

<ul>
<li>Booked online or by phone - Refund to the card used. </li>
<li>Paid in person at Stoke Lodge - Please bring your payment card to the office. </li>
</ul>

Online Course Access

<ul>
<li>Learners are responsible for ensuring they have suitable internet access and equipment before the course begins.</li>
<li>No refunds will be issued due to technical issues with a learner’s own internet or computer.</li>
</ul>