Throughout the history of western art, portrait drawing has remained a vital artistic practice. Artists such as Michelangelo, Holbein, Van Dyck, and Ingres have explored this motif. These works speak to us because they are immediate, direct and honest. This workshop will be on advanced methods and tools needed to draw a portrait on white paper using graphite in order to develop it to its highest resolution. An emphasis will be on understanding the structure of the head, as well as the artist’s analysis and interpretation of the model. Composition, perspective, proportions and the effects of light and dark will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on an in-depth investigation on the underlying structure of the head, skull and facial features. Students will learn to capture the likeness and unique personality of the sitter by carefully observing the subtleties of the human face. Split screens will be used to allow you to work along with your teacher. By working alongside your teacher, you will gain a more concrete and visual understanding of the artists’ process. Shared screens will be used to allow for an ongoing dialogue of critiques, lectures and demonstrations every day. All forms of art will be referenced to inspire and enhance the students’ experience. All levels welcome.

Please click on Enroll Now to view the required supplies

Gage Academy of Art acknowledges the Coast Salish Peoples as the original inhabitants of this area and connecting waterways. We understand the land that Gage occupies is unceded territory and that today many Indigenous peoples live here and without their stewardship, we would not have access to this space. We honor the Coast Salish Peoples’ sovereignty, rights to self-determination, culture and ways of life. Since time immemorial, Indigenous peoples have called this territory their sacred land. We commit to learning, educating others and repairing the legacy of historically harmful relationships between non-Native and Native peoples in King County. In doing so, we will be honest, and recognize the experiences of Native peoples to include genocide, forced relocation, forced assimilation, and land theft. We also acknowledge Native peoples are survivors, present in today’s world, thriving. We encourage everyone here today to ask themselves: what can I do to support Indigenous communities?

In an effort to be transparent, Gage is contemplating this call to action and re-working how to best support Indigenous communities.

click here to chat