Learn how to compose abstract expressive drawings responding to different stimuli. Explore new ways of using rhythm, space and mediums to make drawings. Working with the body, memory and emotion, you will link the technical elements of drawing with personal expression.

The tutor will introduce a range of stimuli, including words, images, sounds and music to evoke your personal response. You will then learn how to incorporate approaches from dance composition to guide you in your drawing composition. The space on the white paper will become like a dance floor onto which you will explore your response, working with different drawing media. The focus is on rhythm, space and composition.

You will experiment with different drawing tools and media and learn to select the tools that enhance your sense of space and rhythm in drawing. You will learn more of the different options available to express your emotions through colours and rhythm, and how to make choices to compose your personal drawing.

You will be encouraged to develop your attitude to space by breaking your attachment to it, and by changing your attachment to results, instead focusing on the process. This will help you to develop a greater sense of freedom in your drawing and unexpected results that are personal to you. This approach helps you to overcome any resistance to starting to create, giving you confidence in your drawing.

At the end of course, you will have learned new approaches to drawing and gained a better understanding of colours, shapes, space, rhythm and balance. You will have explored the relationship between different drawing media and stimuli, and you will be inspired to continue to develop your own approach to drawing after the course.

Included

• The course fee includes the cost of providing some drawing materials for the first evening session only.

What students need to bring

• Cleaning cloth
• All drawing materials you like to work with
• 2 sheets of paper (+ 40 inches x 28 inches)
• 3 to 5 coloured pencils - small and large point
• 3 to 5 regular biros in different colours
• 3 to 5 coloured chalks – both small and large
• 3 to 5 wax pastels
• 3 large point markers
• A wide selection of drawing media
• A bandage or sleep mask for covering your eyes
• A small sponge

Available to buy

• Available from shop:
• A variety of materials are available to buy, including paper, coloured pencils, biros, coloured chalks, wax pastels, large point markers and a wide selection of drawing media.

Additional information

Be willing to let go of preconceived ideas and bring a sense of adventure to learn and discover new approaches to drawing. Please wear appropriate clothing/aprons for the workshop or studio, this includes stout covered footwear (no sandals or open toes).

Arrival Day - this is the first date listed above

Courses start early evening. Residential students to arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 6.45pm.

6.45pm: Welcome, followed by dinner (included).

8 - 9pm: First teaching session, attendance is essential.

Daily timetable

Classes 9.15 - 5pm, lunch is included.

From 6.30pm: Dinner (included for residential students).

Evening working - students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with their tutor's permission and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Last day

Classes 9.15am - 3pm, lunch is included.

Residential students are to vacate their rooms by 10am please.

(This timetable is for courses of more than one day in length. The tutor may make slight variations)

Terms & Conditions