You may well think you know the human form, but what actually lies beneath the skin?
In this fully-tutored one-day workshop we explore how to make hard working, practical drawings from a life model that can be used to support figurative sculpture. Using his expert knowledge of the human form Jake Spicer will guide us around the body to give us a greater understanding of how the anatomy that lies beneath the skin informs and defines what we see on a surface level. You will then be able to apply this new new found knowledge and understanding to your sculpture to create more convincing forms. If you do not sculpt then this course will no doubt be useful to you as well.
Over the course of the day we will explore short, energetic drawing exercises that capture the gesture of the figure before getting stuck into a longer study in the round, making several drawings from different aspects of a pose, recording the profile of the figure and making drawings that explore form and surface.
Alongside the practical drawing exercises we will look at historical links between sculpture and drawing with particular reference to Edgar Degas, Henry Moore and Kathe Kolvitz.
So whether you’re a complete novice or an experienced artist in need of a refresher, we guarantee that you will not only leave feeling inspired but also with the confidence to take your newfound skills further.
COURSE DETAILS
This course includes:
- A series of structured demonstrations and exercises
- Working from a life model who will pose for varying lengths of time
- Relaxed & attentive one-to-one guidance for every student
Suitable for?
This course has been put together for those who have an interest in sculpture but is also suitable for anyone, regardless of experience or interests – we generally advise 14 years old+ though. Please note that the life model will be undressed throughout the class.
What is included in the price?
- A full days’ teaching (10am-4pm)
- A professional life model
- Tea, coffee, biscuits/cake
- Drawing materials: A2 & A3 cartridge paper, Charcoal, Pencils, Graphite sticks & Erasers
- Use of a beautiful purpose-built art studio with all the equipment & materials you will need
- Beautiful countryside setting
This course is for you if:
- You want to draw with more confidence and learn new skills
- You want to improve your sculpture by gaining a greater understanding of the human form
- You want to get away from it all and immerse yourself in a fun, creative environment
- You love creativity
Beyond the course
After the course you will be armed with many new skills to incorporate into your own art.
There are opportunities for you to continue to explore these at the Phoenix Studio (during our monthly life drawing classes and our other courses). We can also point you in the direction of other classes and venues local to you.
Jake has also written a number of excellent, accessible books about drawing if you wish to study his teachings further, signed copies will be available to buy from Jake during the weekend.
Need accommodation?
If you are travelling from further afield and would like to stay in the area for your visit then have a look at our recommended list of local B&Bs and hotels.
ABOUT THE TUTOR
Jake Spicer
The leader of the Drawing Circus, Jake is passionate about drawing and is equally passionate about teaching.
He’s a busy man – teaching multiple classes around the country – in Brighton, at West Dean College, touring with the Circus, The Camden Arts Centre and The National Portrait Gallery.
He write books about drawing, has a monthly column for Artist & Illustrators magazine and gives lectures and classes on the applications of drawing as a tool for understanding, communication, artmaking and as a vehicle for social good. He is also undertaking a long term study into the fundamental processes of drawing and also paints when he can.
In the past he has worked with the BBC, ITV, Brighton University, The Big Draw, The Old Market Theatre, Creative Futures, Playgroup Festival, Brighton and Hove Museums & RAM, among others.
You can have a look at his website here.
‘It’s so easy to think that you know the human form – I mean you look in the mirror at one everyday! Watching Jake teach on is first weekend here made me realise just how little I knew or assumed to be a certain way when it wasn’t. I am sure that anyone who attends this class will have similar revelations and approach their art in a more considered way having done this course!’
James Ort – Studio Manager
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