Life Drawing – the Essential Techniques

Age

Suitable for adults aged 18+.

Level

Beginners or anyone with some experience who want to refresh or develop their skills further.

Experience or qualifications required

None – this is an introductory course. We have no formal academic entry requirements for our short courses.

If you'd like to discuss if this course is suitable for you, get in touch with us: shortcourses@aub.ac.uk or 01202 363222.

£339

Any additional costs

You'll need to provide some art materials and equipment. This'll incur an additional cost if you need to purchase it for the course. See the 'What to bring to class' section below for full details.

Additional materials and resources will be provided by AUB and is included in your course fee.

• Notebook and pens/pencils to make notes
• A1 good quality cartridge paper (white)
• A2 cartridge paper (white)
• Sugar paper
• Drawing board clips
• Drawing pencils 2B-6B
• Plastic rubber
• Putty rubber (e.g., Lyra or Faber Castell)
• White and coloured chalk
• Charcoal sticks (various thicknesses)
• Soft graphite sticks/crayons
• Roll of masking tape

• Studies in basic proportion and measuring
• Using environmental clues to reference the angles of the figure
• Expressive use of line, contour and mark making
• Studies in anatomy (including heads, hands, and feet)
• Working with colour
• Tonal value and working with contrast
• Drawing the figure in motion and dynamics
• Blocking in form
• The figure in perspective
• Using negative space and silhouette

At the end of the course you'll:

• Possess improved artistic and observational drawing skills
• Understand fundamental drawing principles, including basic proportion, perspective and measuring
• Have a sound understanding of the principles of drawing the human form from life and be able to draw it in perspective
• Have a working knowledge of negative shape and silhouette in your drawings
• Be proficient in a range of drawing techniques, including use of line, contour and mark making
• Be the proud owner of a portfolio of experimental and completed work
• Have increased confidence in your own skills and feel inspired
• Have boosted creativity and imagination
• Possess the foundations to continue creating beyond this course
• You can request a certificate to confirm your achievements, providing you've a 100% attendance record. To request a certificate please get in touch with us at shortcourses@aub.ac.uk and confirm your name and the title of course you've completed

Will I be assessed?

No, there is no formal assessment. You’ll group share your work at the end of each session with the intention to support, inspire and encourage each other’s learning. 

As the course progresses your tutor will measure your overall performance and offer essential guidance and feedback, so you know how you're getting on.