Using drawing techniques and materials, you will develop drawing skills using appropriate materials in creative and unique ways.  You will be aware of the effects of the surface quality and texture in drawing, methods of mark-making, unique properties of materials, mixing drawing media techniques and how this can be used in composition. Through a series of abstract and observational drawing techniques using line, tone, texture, you will develop an understanding of the unique properties of a variety of drawing materials. You will begin to demonstrate an understanding of value and the use of tonal range in your drawings.

Drawing can be described as making marks on paper. This approach aims to keep you present to 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 through experimental mark- making. On this course you will use traditional drawing materials in an experimental way.

Objectives:

• You will be aware of the effects of surface quality and texture in an image
• You will gain an understanding of the drawing materials used
• You will demonstrate an understanding of value and the use of tonal range in your drawings and gain an understanding of the differences between different mark-making techniques

By the end of the course, you will have gained confidence in your materials to make expressive marks inspired by a still life set up.

Included

The college will provide some A1 cartridge paper and newsprint per person, plus some charcoal, ink and masking tape to share amongst the group.

What students need to bring

• Drawing materials: a selection of pencils to include B, 2B and 4B
• Two small round brushes for use with ink Sanguine Conté pencil
• Eraser, putty and/or plastic and pencil sharpener
• White chalk and Conté sticks
• Coloured pencils (optional)
• Tube or A1/A2 folder to take work home

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