Taught by practicing artists the course will guide students through a range of observational drawing exercises, creating works for portfolios and encouraging a regular sketchbook practice.
The V&A’s collection of classical sculpture provides rich subject matter and context. Students will engage with the long-standing tradition of drawing the body, clothed and unclothed, through direct observation of sculpture and works in the
cast courts and galleries. The cast collection is famous for including reproductions of Michelangelo's David, Trajan's Column, and Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise, amongst many others.
The first half of the course will take place at the Victoria and Albert Museum and will then continue to explore various other settings and exhibitions, looking at casts, clothing and the body in different environments.
The course culminates with one-to-one tutorials which will include portfolio development discussion and reflection, and students are encouraged to develop drawings made in class outside of sessions.
Tutors will be on hand to advise and support young artists with a learner-centred approach to working from observation in the galleries. They provide insight into how the historical, cultural and political significance of the collection informs contemporary artistic practice and supports the development of independent approaches.
Guidance and technical advice will be imparted on mark-making, volume, tone, perspective, proportion and compositional instruction on depth and space. Time will be given for sustained drawings and one-on-one tailored tuition as well as group critiques.
By studying the body in garments and drapery, artists connect with a Renaissance practice that sharpens observation of light, shadow, and structure, while using folds to enhance rhythm and composition.
Locations will include the V&A’s Cast Courts, Sculpture galleries including the Rodin, Religious galleries, the Theatre and Performance galleries and other venues.
A full schedule will be provided in advance.
Contemporary references will be provided and will highlight how studying at the V&A offers a toolkit of approaches to drawing the human form, supporting students interested in further study in fine art, fashion, illustration, animation and more.
