Drawing trees with Natasha Lien

Ref: SWE37141

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About this course

The aim of this course is to study the structure of trees using a variety of different drawing techniques and materials in the beautiful grounds of West Dean. The course is for all levels of ability from beginner to advanced.

Course Description

On the first evening, after introductions, you will look at images of trees on a slideshow demonstrating techniques used by great masters from the past to the present.

The following morning will focus on structure and measuring, including various warm-up exercises.

In the afternoon, the focus will be on tone in drawing using charcoal and pencil. In the evening, there will be another optional slideshow.

The final day will consist of warm-up exercises again, plus discussion on various different drawing techniques. You will have the option of using ink in black and brown. You will also have the option of working on one drawing for the whole day or doing several drawings. Everyone works at different speeds, so the tutor will meet you wherever you are at.

Please note, the aim of this course is to work from observation outdoors; however, this does depend on the weather, so please be prepared to be flexible. We may need to work inside if it rains, etc. The tutor has lots of back up images that you can work from.

Course Materials

Included

On this course the College will supply some of the materials including cartridge paper, watercolour paper, a putty rubber and a plastic rubber per student and some charcoal, black ink and sepia ink to share amongst the group.

What students need to bring

  • Pencils: 2B, 3B, 4B and 6B
  • A variety of brushes for applying ink (optional)
  • Warm clothes, as it is always colder than most people realise when sitting or standing still for many hours outdoors – ideally, layers, hats and gloves (hopefully, they will not be needed)
  • Suncream (hopefully, we will need it if we have exceptionally good weather)
  • Coloured pencils/pastels (optional)

Available to buy

Available from shop: A good variety of art materials including graphite pencils, coloured pencils, brushes and paper.

Additional information

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

Timetable

Arrival day
Residential students can arrive from 4pm, non-residential students to arrive by 7.15pm for registration. Students arriving earlier are welcome to purchase dinner in the College Dining Room from 6pm.
Students meet their tutor in the Bar at 7.30pm prompt to go to studios.
First Teaching session: 7.30pm - 9pm (attendance is essential)

Daily timetable
Course teaching: 9.15am - 5pm
Morning session: 9.15am - 12.45pm including coffee/tea break
Lunch break: 12.45pm - 2pm*
Afternoon session: 2pm - 5pm including coffee/tea break
Teaching finishes: 5pm
Evening working: students may have access to workshops until 9pm, but only with permission from the tutor and provided any health and safety guidelines are observed.

Departure day
Course teaching: 9.15am - 3pm
Teaching finishes: 3pm

Residential students will need to check out of rooms by 10am. Please note, the tutor may make slight variations to the daily timetable as required.

*Lunch can be purchased on campus, view options

General Information

Tutors

Natasha Lien

Natasha Lien is a professional Chinese British artist in drawing, painting and printmaking.

Accommodation

Residential option available. Find out accommodation costs and how to book here.

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Further study options for art craft and design short courses

Further study options

Take the next step in your creative practice, with foundation level to Masters in Fine Art study. 

Depending on your experience, start with an Online Foundation Certificate in Art and Design (one year, part-time), a Foundation Diploma in Art and Design made up of 10 short courses taken over two years (part-time) or advance your learning with our BA (Hons) Art and Contemporary Craft: Materials, Making, and Place (six years part-time). All will help you develop core skills, find direction in your practice and build an impressive portfolio in preparation for artist opportunities or higher-level study. See all degree and diploma courses.