Using charcoal, graphite and pencil, and plenty of paper to work small and large scale, you will discover how to connect to the process of drawing through meditation using body and breath to respond to the expressive qualities of drawing materials. A retreat style day, with all materials provided, suitable for any level, no expectations.

You will be led into the session with an introduction to mindful meditation, using body and breath as a focus for your attention, followed by an introduction to the drawing materials you will be using for the day. You will be paying attention to how the materials feel in the hand, the touch on paper, the sound of drawing, the movement of the body, the relationship of your breath to the whole process.

Drawing could be described as making marks on paper. With this idea in mind, you will be making a series of experimental drawings, large and small, making marks in response to sensation, more than observation. This approach aims to keep you present in the process, rather than focused on the outcome. It doesn’t have to look like anything, and you do not have to be good at drawing to enjoy this course and benefit from it. Whatever your experience, the practical exercises are designed to enable you to let go of self-judgement and expectations. You will be encouraged to play and experiment.

For example:

• Drawing with charcoal across a large page, one mark per breath, notice what you notice
• Making marks as you move, with pen and pencil on tiny pieces of paper held in the hand
• Making large gestural marks on a larger piece of paper with the eyes shut, following a meditation
• Draw from observation, taking a line for a walk, looking around you and not at the paper, to remove judgement and expectation
• Rub out, or rip up a drawing, collage it back together again

You will go home from this course with an experience of drawing, rather than finished drawings. You may choose to leave all the work behind and trust that the impact of the process, the way of looking, of paying attention to your subject and your materials will be long lasting and affect the drawings you make in the future.

Included

The college will provide all materials, including two large rolls of Fabriano paper, cartridge paper, 2B pencils, rubbers, charcoal, compressed charcoal, masking tape and fixative to share amongst the group.

What students need to bring

• A notebook and pen/pencil

Additional information

Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Daily Timetable

Course teaching: 11am–5.15pm
Students arrive: 10.30am-11am (coffee optional)  
Morning teaching: 11am-1pm
Lunch break: 1pm-2pm (lunch is not included)
Afternoon teaching: 2pm-5.15pm (15 minute break, 3.30pm–3.45pm)
Teaching finishes: 5.15pm  
 

Short courses are open to anyone aged 18 and over. The course fee covers tuition and materials where stated. You will need to bring all other items listed under the ‘Materials to bring’ section.

Refreshments

Coffee and tea are included in the course fee, but you will need to bring lunch with you to eat in the refreshments room. There are also plenty of other local venues to purchase food.

Access

If you have any specific access needs, we will need to know about your access requirements in advance. Please tell us about your needs in confidence by emailing: [email protected] This venue has steps to the front reception, with limited access via a side gate to the ground floor. There is a small lift to higher floors or stairs.

Safety

Short course students are required to sign a safety compliance form as part of West Dean Health and Safety regulations.

Refunds and cancellations

Please refer to our terms & conditions below.

Disclaimer

The information given is accurate at the time of publication. However, West Dean College reserves the right to cancel or amend courses if circumstances require.

Terms & Conditions