Portraiture From Life-Summer School

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Course code: P56C

One-day portrait-drawing class for all skill levels.

when: From 13 Aug 2026
Thursday 10:00-16:00 One day
Tutor: Bill Guilding

where

Stoke Lodge

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

fees

full fee for this course £51.00, concession fee £31.00

who

Bristol Adult Learning

stokelodge@bristol.gov.uk

0117 903 8844

Description

A one-day portrait-drawing summer school with a clothed model. Suitable for beginners and those wishing to develop their skills.

What can students expect?

You will draw from a clothed sitter with guidance and feedback from the tutor. You may use any drawing or painting medium you are comfortable with—pastelists are welcome too. Beginners will learn about the structure of the face and watch a demonstration on how to begin a portrait, while more experienced learners may start drawing straight away.

Late starters allowed?

Yes, but late arrivals will miss the course introduction.

Previous experience required?

Some previous experience of drawing from observation is recommended.

What is the progression route?

Other portraiture courses.

Are there any extra costs?

Yes. Learners provide their own materials. In addition, a model fee of £12 is payable in cash to the tutor at the beginning of the session.

Work set between sessions?

N/A

What should students bring?

Those new to portraiture should bring: 

<ul>
<li>Sheets of A3 white drawing paper or sketch pad</li>
<li>Pencil, charcoal or graphite stick </li>
<li>Eraser </li>
<li>Masking-tape or drawing clips or bull-dog clips</li>
</ul>

Those with experience of portrait drawing should bring:

<ul>
<li>Coloured soft/chalky pastels </li>
<li>Coloured pencils/crayons</li>
<li>Coloured paper (sugar, pastel or parcel paper)</li>
</ul>

Those wishing to paint should bring:

<ul>
<li>Brushes</li>
<li>Palette</li>
<li>Water jar</li>
<li>Heavy paper (at least 300gsm, if using water)</li>
<li>Colours for mixing skin-shades i.e. Burnt Sienna, Raw Sienna, Raw Umber & Orange.</li>
</ul>

 

In addition, please remember:

<ul>
<li>Model fee of £12 in cash </li>
<li>Packed lunch</li>
</ul>

Drawing boards, standing or table easels are provided.

Teaching method/style?

Predominantly practical, supported by guidance and feedback from the tutor. You will also benefit from short demonstrations and clear guidelines on facial structure, as well as from observing the work of fellow learners.

Equipment Required

See list above

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>