A Focus On Figure
For those with a fascination with the figure, draw inspiration from a wide range of works of art at the British Museum.
Available Classes:
Previous Experience Required
For those with a fascination with the figure who want to be inspired by some of the great works of art in the British Museum. Students should have prior experience of drawing from observation or a willingness to try. Students should be prepared to work in their sketchbooks in a crowded museum space.
This is a course for students who want to draw, paint, sculpt or collage from their experience of recording information and observations in their sketchbook. It is not an academic art history course.
Course Content
In the first session we will meet on the front steps of the British Museum at 10.25 a.m. and we will move slowly through the Egyptian galleries to the works of the Parthenon. The tutor will direct you to a few key works as examples of various themes that I think are helpful in understanding the expression of repose and movement in the sculptures. You can then trace your steps back to any works you find interesting and draw directly from them. The tutor will advise and direct you while you are drawing and we will look at your discoveries as a group in the space provided by the Museum.
In the second session we will visit some galleries of your choice. The tutor will also want you to see different interpretations of the figure in other cultural traditions. We will look at whether form is interpreted as idealised beauty or utilitarian narrative. Students will have their own ideas to realise in the museum and the tutor will assist them to develop and record their visualisation. Expect to explore the use of shape, rhythm, volume and texture in the works you see.
Main Outcomes
Students will be able to work from their sketchbooks. Students may want to develop work on a larger scale and experiment with a wide variety of materials in painting, sculpture and collage or enrol on suitable courses at the Mary Ward Centre [Life Drawing, Sculpting from the Figure etc].
They may also be encouraged to visit the British Museum and investigate more works on their own.
This course is a good way of expanding your portfolio to develop new work or for applications to a higher or further education courses.
What you can do next, after this course
Join other longer courses at the Centre
What materials you will need for the course and estimated cost
An A3 or A2 sketchbook, pencils, eraser. More advice will be given on the day. The tutor will also provide some drawing materials if required. Maximum cost £10.00
The teaching and learning methods we use on the course
Students are guided by the tutor, given feedback and encouragement. Students can ask questions in group discussions at the end of each session and individually as problems arise. Each student is encouraged to express themselves.
How we assess your progress on the course
Students are given feedback during the course, individually and in group review settings. An individual informal assessment will be made at the end of the course.
What extra study/practice we expect you to do outside the class
Practise drawing and observing regularly. This course is aimed to provide work for portfolios for students wishing to develop their skills further, possibly for a higher or further education course.
The Mary Ward Centre's Widening Participation work has helped me find a place in my community and make friends
Mandy
Concessions:
This course has concessions available for people who meet certain criteria
Got a Question about this Course?
Contact Jackie Wamaitha, the course administrator.
Why Come to Mary Ward?
Mary Ward Centre is the friendly place to learn. With excellent teaching and a variety of courses that cater for all, from beginners to more advanced students, the Centre has a unique atmosphere and modern facilities that encourage new learners to join us and former students to return.