Discover the expressive language of the human figure through drawing. This four-week course introduces the foundations of figure drawing, from simple stick figures and gesture sketches to understanding anatomy, proportion, movement, and form. Through tutor demonstrations, guided exercises, photographic references, and live model sessions, students will develop confidence in capturing the energy, structure, and character of the human body using pencil and charcoal.

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

• Understand the basic proportions and structure of the human figure
• Construct the body using gesture lines, stick figures, and simplified forms
• Recognise major muscle groups and anatomical landmarks relevant to drawing
• Create tonal drawings using pencil and charcoal to describe form and volume
• Draw confidently from observation during live figure drawing sessions

Course Outline:

Week 1: Gesture & Proportion

• Introduction to figure drawing fundamentals
• Understanding body proportions and balance
• Gesture drawing through stick figures and action lines
• Capturing movement and rhythm through quick sketches
• Tutor demonstration and guided exercises

Week 2: Anatomy, Structure & Form

• Simplifying the body into geometric forms
• Introduction to major muscle groups and skeletal landmarks
• Understanding weight, posture, and body mechanics
• Tonal studies with pencil and charcoal from photographic references
• Individual feedback and drawing development

Week 3: Live Figure Drawing – Observation & Gesture

• Introduction to drawing from a live model
• Quick pose studies and gesture drawing
• Measuring proportion through observation
• Developing expressive line quality and confident mark-making
• Tutor demonstrations throughout the session

Week 4: Live Figure Drawing – Tonal Development

• Extended drawing from a live model
• Building form through light and shadow
• Understanding volume, anatomy, and spatial relationships
• Creating a resolved figure drawing
• Group discussion and individual feedback

What to Bring:

• A3 Sketchbook or drawing pad (minimum 120gsm)
• Newsprint pad or cartridge paper for quick sketches
• HB, 2B, 4B and 6B graphite pencils
• Willow charcoal and compressed charcoal
• Kneadable eraser
• Plastic eraser
• Sharpener or craft knife
• Blending stump (tortillon)
• Tracing paper pad (A4 or A3)
• Brown kraft paper sheets (A3 preferred)
• Bulldog clips or masking tape
• Drawing board (optional)

Reference materials will be provided during the first two sessions. The final two sessions will focus on observational drawing from a live model.

Art Supplies Discount:

As a bonus for learning Art with SGSCC, all enrolled students are entitled to a generous 10% discount off the purchase of art supplies when they shop in-store at Eckersley’s Art & Craft, Taren Point!
View Eckersley's Website for product ideas.

About the Tutor:

Arafat Hosen is an international artist and educator with over fifteen years of teaching experience in the Department of Fine Art and Graphic Design at Shanto-Mariam University of Creative Technology, Dhaka, Bangladesh. He has presented four major solo exhibitions in Dhaka and Thimphu, Bhutan, and has conducted workshops and demonstrations across art communities in South Asia and Australia. His practice centres on watercolour as a meditative process of self-inquiry, where fluid interactions of colour and form reveal layered visual and psychological narratives. Arafat’s teaching is informed by his commitment to dialogue, cultural exchange, and mindful observation. His work bridges traditional and contemporary approaches, integrating technical discipline with philosophical reflection. Through both his artistic practice and pedagogy, he explores the relationship between memory, perception, and material process, fostering deeper engagement with art as a meaningful human experience.

Please visit his website and social media to view his artworks and activities, reflecting his commitment to inspiring creativity and enriching society.

Website: www.arafathosen.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arafatgdm

Other Information:

• To ensure resources are ready for you at the start of your course, we ask you ideally enrol at least one week before the course commences.
• All courses need a minimum number of students to run ("we try our hardest to get those") . If your course does not have enough students it will be cancelled before the commencement and you will be informed.