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Course intent

Learn and refine techniques and methods to draw and paint convincing portraits. As someone who has already completed other art classes, this course provides you with progression to capture more of a likeness when you draw and paint a portrait.

What will I learn?

You will learn:

Design Techniques: Explore key principles of perspective and composition to strengthen the structure of your work.

Material Knowledge: Develop a strong understanding of the materials you are using, learning how to use different mediums to create layers and textures. Discover how to mix colours, in particular skin tones. Discover how to prepare and use different surfaces and supports.

Craftsmanship

Sharpen your observational skills to draw with greater accuracy, expression, and confidence. Advance your drawing abilities by applying complex techniques such as shading and proportion, refining your measuring and positioning of features. Practise how to effectively use colour in your compositions. Develop a personal sketchbook to document your artistic growth.

Production Process

Study the work of influential traditional and contemporary artists to deepen your understanding of visual language. Gain insight into artistic context, techniques, and composition to inform and inspire your own creative practice.

Workshop Practice: Learn essential health and safety practices in the studio, including proper cleaning and care of tools and materials, to ensure a safe and professional working environment.

Who is this course for? Is there anything I need to know before joining?

Stage 2 – Suitable for learners who have completed stage 1 and would like to gain more experience and refine their skills within their chosen subject area. The focus will be on developing more control and proficiency in practice and learning and completing more complex projects.

What do I need to bring to the first class? Will there be any extra costs?

To the first session you need to bring:  a set of drawing/graphite pencils with a range of pencil grades,  an eraser/rubber  a pencil sharpener  an A4 sketch book.

Additional drawing and painting media will be discussed during the first week. The Tutor will provide initial images to work from. For any queries, please email adultlearning@surreycc.gov.uk

What can I do when I finish the course?

For the academic year 2025-26, each term is designed to progress term to term. In Autumn 2026, you can move up to Stage 3. Saturday workshops provide opportunities for you to try out new ideas and techniques and can enhance and consolidate your learning.

Additional Information

We welcome learners with additional needs and disabilities. When you enrol, please let us know if you would like to discuss your extra support needs with a member of the Supported Learning Team who will then contact you as soon as possible. If you are enrolling within 10 days of the course start date, we may not be able to contact you before your first class.

We value and support equality, diversity and inclusion by promoting fairness and respect at all times.

How to enrol

You can't currently enrol online for this course, so please call 0300 200 1044 to express your interest or to make an enquiry for further information.

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