Brighton and London-based figurative artist & yoga teacher Bella Franks is all about ‘the art of the body’ – using the mind & body connection to fully appreciate the human form through creativity.
Over this two day course, each morning will begin with a yoga class (9.30-10.30am) before you start the fun process of making art. The yoga class is optional, but Bella encourages students to join in – it is open to all levels & will be a gentle class aimed at stretching the body in preparation for creativity to flow throughout the weekend.
Bella has been drawing the human form for over 16 years and tutors the practise as well as being a life model herself. This invaluable experience from both sides of the canvas has made her well equipped to help others explore the practise. The course will cover practical tools to help you with proportions, mark making & tone, as well as giving the freedom to explore your own freedom of expression & style. There will be the chance to incorporate print-making & collage in your work.
Bella works with live musicians to inspire her work and will be giving students a taste of this – her course will be accompanied by live music. The interplay between music, movement and the life model is unique & inspiring and Bella hopes this extra level of creative expression will help you explore a new openness in your own work.
COURSE OUTLINE
DAY 1
Morning yoga
Observational drawing from the human form – short to medium length poses aimed at learning the tools of the practise, while giving you space to develop your mark making skills & expression.
Live music accompanying the life drawing class
A home cooked vegan meal by James is available pre-ordered at lunchtime
DAY 2
Morning yoga
Incorporate mixed media – developing your work from Saturday, as well as continuing to work from the life model who will be holding a long pose throughout the day.
Choose to work on one or multiple pieces of work.
You will get the chance to explore Linocut printing, mono-printing & collage under Bella’s guidance.
A home cooked meal by James is available pre-ordered at lunchtime
This fun course includes:
- Informal, relaxed & attentive guidance for every student, provided by Bella
- Approaches to drawing the human form – covering proportion, line, tone & gesture
- Step-by-step demonstrations in linocut printing & mono printing
- Live music accompanying one of the drawing sessions
- Art materials – paper, basic drawing materials, linocut & mono printing equipment, papers for collage
Suitable for?
Anyone regardless of experience.
We generally limit the age to 14 years old+ though exceptions can be made where appropriate. Please contact James Orts and ask.
What is included in the price?
- Two tutored full days of life drawing with a model (11am-4.30pm)
- Art materials
- Live music on Saturday during the class
- Tea, coffee, biscuits/cakes
- Use of a beautiful, purpose built art studio with all the equipment & materials you will need
- Beautiful countryside setting
Additional costs:
- Morning yoga £5 each day (9.30-10.30am)
- Home cooked vegan lunch £10 each day (pre-order with James)
- Saturday evening gig & performance (BYOB & picnic)
This course is for you if:
- You hope to become more familiar with the life drawing practise – from a theoretical & practical level
- You want to explore your creativity but lack the confidence to do so on your own
- You want to become fully immersed in a creative environment – through movement, music & art
Pre course prep
Bella’s courses are largely self-contained so you do not need to do any special preparation. However, Sunday gives students the option to incorporate collage into their work. If that is appealing, please gather magazines, cuttings, inspiring texts and anything you would like to use for this.
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 recommend B&Bs and hotels. Click here for the list.
Beyond The Course
Having completed a Phoenix Studio weekend many of our students choose to explore the medium further. They may come on another weekend course, start coming to our Creative Monday Sessions, evening sessions or carry on independently at home. We are more than happy to help and advise you in taking those first creative steps!
ABOUT THE TUTOR
I am forever inspired by the human form and love the opportunity to encourage students to become inspired too.The Phoenix Studio is my absolute favourite studio and I can’t wait to bring my art, yoga & music to such a special place!Bella Franks – Course Tutor
Bella gets wonderful feedback from the people who attend her courses. Here are just a couple of testimonials:
I have been attending Bella’s classes since 2014. Bella has a real passion for life-drawing which she shares with her students creating an encouraging, comfortable atmosphere for everyone. Beginners are given the support they need to feel relaxed in the environment. Bella puts together beautiful playlists of music which compliment the drawing completely, and I cannot recommend her classes highly enough for a fully immersive, unique experience.
Bella’s yoga classes are an equally special experience. As a beginner I find them extremely welcoming, not in the least intimidating and her focus on breathing ensures you finish feeling calm and relaxed.
Flavia, Art Teacher
Bella has introduced me to life drawing. I’m a total art novice and have found it a way to relax and engage in a meditative practice. My normal port of call is sport, sport, sport however Bella’s teaching has encouraged me and brought a new activity to my life. I look forward to more drawing.
Tomas Coulter
Bella Franks – artist and creative soul. Bella’s classes combine a relaxed, inclusive, fun vibe with music and of course her artistic talents which she shares with you in abundance. Bella’s style of teaching is encouraging and supportive, and can adapt to the absolute beginner or more experienced artists, and across artistic mediums. Importantly, her classes are delivered with an unassuming and extremely fun air about herself, which sets the perfect scene to channel your inner Picasso! Bella is a rare soul in this hectic world that we live in, and her classes are everything as brilliant as she is.
Mike Pickett
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