Introduction to figure painting
Figure painting is both exciting and challenging. Working from live models and learning to manipulate light and color to bring a painting to life can be an exhilarating experience.
Figure painting is also a demanding discipline. Artists must balance the challenges of drawing, including proportion, gesture, and value, while simultaneously navigating the complexities of painting, such as color temperature, color mixing, flesh tones, and the properties of the painting medium itself.
This workshop is designed to help students better understand and navigate these challenges by breaking down the various elements of figure painting into a clear, systematic approach.
Through live demonstrations, lectures, and one-on-one instruction, students will develop a stronger understanding of figure painting and improve their practical skills. The instructor will work through each project alongside the class, providing demonstrations and individualized critiques to ensure that students receive guidance appropriate to their experience and skill level.
Throughout the workshop, students will be introduced to new concepts while working from photographic references and master copies. They will then apply what they have learned to painting directly from live models.
Topics Covered During the Workshop
Proportion and comparative measuring: Students will learn to use comparative measuring to establish accurate figure proportions, along with three additional techniques for analyzing and capturing visual relationships.
Figure construction and anatomy: An introduction to useful anatomical landmarks and a step-by-step approach to constructing the human figure.
Values and light: Understanding value relationships and how to create a convincing effect of light, three-dimensional form, and space.
Color mixing: Developing a systematic approach to mixing colors and achieving desired color and value relationships.
Flesh tones and palette organization: Learning to mix the specific flesh tones of an individual model and developing an organized, efficient system for working with the painter's palette.
The figure painting process: Working step by step through the creation of a figure painting from life, progressing from the initial underdrawing and block-in to the final surface details.
Practical painting projects: Over the course of the workshop, students will complete multiple one- and two-day projects working from photographic references, master copies, and live models.
Who Should Attend
Some prior experience with figure drawing and painting is recommended, but not required. Students may find it helpful to have previously completed ZAFA's Introduction to Classical Drawing, Introduction to Figure Drawing, or Introduction to Classical Oil Painting workshops.
However, artists of all skill levels are welcome to attend.
The course structure allows for substantial one-on-one instruction, ensuring that students of varying backgrounds and experience levels receive the individual guidance they need to develop their skills without feeling left behind or held back by the pace of the class.
This workshop offers an opportunity to explore the challenges and rewards of figure painting while gaining valuable experience working directly from live models in a studio environment.
I hope you can join us!
DETAILS
March 27th to April 25th
10, 3 hour classes
Sundays and Sundays from 4-7pm
In this workshop, students will explore the challenges and rewards of figure painting through photo references, master copies, and live models. We will work through a systematic approach to the painting process—from accurately mapping out the figure and blocking in the major shapes and values to mixing flesh tones and adding the finishing touches. Some familiarity with figure drawing and oil painting is recommended, but not required, and all skill levels are welcome.
Enrollment is confirmed upon completion of payment
“William is a kind and patient teacher who tailors his feedback to your experience level and progression in your work. Highly recommend his classes!”
“Very in depth course, helped me grow as an artist and will definitely put in to practice what I learned. Highly recommend ZAFA for artists of all levels.”
“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”