Introduction to Figure Drawing

Learn how to expressively and accurately draw the human figure. This four-week course is ideal for anyone looking to learn the basics of drawing people both from life and reference, as well as those looking to improve their ability to draw dynamic and complex forms.

The course begins by teaching how to capture movement through rapid gesture drawing and then progresses by exploring how to block-in shapes, what to look for in a pose, and what you as an artist can add or leave out to achieve a strong resemblance. 

Under the guidance of the instructor, you will work from both master-copy references and photographs. From understanding starting lines to mastering basic measuring techniques, you'll develop a keen eye for weight distribution, proportion, and detail. By exploring shadow shapes, light effects, and rendering methods, you'll learn to breathe life into your drawings of the human form. 

By the end of the course, you will have a number of figure drawings for your portfolio.  

What you will learn:

✔ Capture the dynamic movement of the human figure through gesture drawing      
✔ Accurately depict the structure and proportions of the human body      
✔ Develop a keen eye for detail to enhance the accuracy and realism of your drawings      
✔ Use rendering techniques to infuse depth, texture, and mood into your drawings to strengthen their emotional impact and visual appeal

Join our visual arts classes online and take your skills to the next level.

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Prerequisite skills:

• Completion of Drawing Basics, or equivalent knowledge and/or experience

What you need to participate:

• Computer or mobile device with Internet. Internet speed must be at least 1.5Mbps download and 800Kbps upload. For students using a mobile device, download the Canvas mobile app and select “Interlochen Online” as your school.
• 2 packs of vine or willow charcoal
• 3 general charcoal pencils
• 8.5” x 11” drawing paper or sketch book
• Kneaded eraser
• 1 piece of sandpaper
• 24” white string (try not to use thread as it is too thin!)
• Masking tape
• Drawing board, at least 20" on the long side
   

How the course works:

Interlochen Online courses are designed to be inspiring and flexible with weekly learning units that combine video segments and guided instruction that you can complete on your own schedule during the week. You will interact regularly with your teacher and peers inside the learning environment. 

You can also participate in an optional weekly hour-long video class meeting, where you can learn from the teacher and interact with your classmates in real-time. At the beginning of the course, you will complete a survey indicating your preferred times for the class meeting. The teacher will make every best effort to identify a meeting time that works for everyone. The teacher will also post recordings of the meetings and you can view them when it is convenient. 

The goal is that you walk away not only with practical skills and friendships but that you are inspired and motivated to pursue your art and realize your potential.