Drawing at the National Gallery

This course is an opportunity to make an intensive study of particular artists, periods, and themes across one of the world’s finest collections of European painting.
  • Drawing from Art
Book now
Drawing at the National Gallery Image

Course details

Dates

16 September – 18 November 2025

Times

10:00 – 17:00

Duration

10 sessions

Fees

£478.00 Concessions available

Location

Museums & galleries

After Anthony van Dyck's 'Portrait of Cornelis van der Geest' Natalie Charles

Overview

This is not a course in copying but rather transcription; translating what you observe into your own drawing. It is therefore not fanciful to suggest we can enter into the minds of the great artists of the past and read how they were thinking. We will examine specific aspects from the language of drawing such as the compositional structure, the use of colour and tone to create form and spatial effects as well as the rich narratives and symbolic elements.  

The two tutors will each bring their individual approach – one will work with students on short drawings from a variety of artists, while the other will focus on a single sustained drawing from a painting and artist of the individual student’s choice. Students will be encouraged to develop their own interpretations and extend these into their practice.  

Who is it for

Artists, creatives and image-makers of all levels welcome, including beginners. 

What’s provided

For our courses being held out and about, you will need to bring your own paper and materials with you. You will be sent a suggested material list before the start of the course.   

What to bring

This is an example list of what may be needed; a full material lists will be provided one week before your course begins. Our suggestions include:

  • Drawing Pencils
  • Conté Crayons
  • Pastels
  • Ink Pens
  • Coloured Pencils
  • Putty and Hard Erasers
  • Pencil Sharpener
  • Sketchbook     
Concessions

We offer a range of discounts. To apply, email admin@royaldrawingschool.org with the required proof. Please wait for confirmation before booking.

 Available discounts

  • NHS Staff: 20%
    Send a photo of your NHS staff badge.
  • Full-time Fine Art BA Students: 75%
    Students on design or applied arts degrees may also be eligible. Send your student ID and proof of enrolment.
  • Primary and Secondary Art Teachers: 50%
    Send a letter from your headteacher or head of art department.
  • Jobseekers: 50%
    Send a recent DWP or JobCentre Plus letter confirming you receive Jobseeker’s Allowance or Universal Credit (if out of work). Appointment booklets are not accepted.
  • Disability Benefit Recipients: 50%
    Send proof that you currently receive this allowance.
  • Tower Hamlets and Hackney Residents: 25% (Shoreditch courses only)
    Send a copy of your most recent council tax bill.
  • Tower Hamlets and Hackney Businesses: 25% (Shoreditch courses only)
    Send a staff ID, business card or a letter from your line manager.
  • Over 60s: 10%
    Send a photo ID as proof of age.
  • Alumni: Postgraduate Programme or Foundation Year: 50% off short courses
    Online Drawing Development Year: 50% off online short courses

Before you apply

  • Documents must be dated within the last 6 months (or 12 months for council tax)
  • Your name must be clearly visible
  • Accepted file formats: PDF, JPG, DOC or DOCX

All our courses are subsidised.

Tutors