Mother Archetype: Image in Storytelling

Over five-weeks we will weave together observational drawing and drawing from fairytales, such as Angela Carter’s The Bloody Chamber and the Brothers Grimm, with memory and the imagination.
  • Life Drawing
  • Drawing from Imagination
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Mother Archetype: Image in Storytelling Image

Course details

Dates

15 September – 13 October 2025

Times

10:00 – 17:00

Duration

5 sessions

Fees

£287.00 Concessions available

Location

Shoreditch studios

Louise Reynolds Leaps and Bounds

Overview

We will look at artists such as Paula Rego, Louise Bourgeois and Toyin Ojih Odutola as an entry point to combining our observed and imagined worlds, and examples of artists who use storytelling as a starting point for drawing.  

The class with take place in the studio, with students working consistently with a life model. Each class will also include exercises that move away from direct observational drawing. For instance, responding to dream drawings and source material.   

Please note this course has an emphasis on the use of imagination and memory which can at times elicit difficult feelings for some. 

Who is it for

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

What’s provided

For studio courses, easels, drawing boards, charcoal, newsprint and masking tape are provided in the studios for free. There is an added paper fee included at the time of booking which covers the use of cartridge and watercolour paper that is provided in the studios. Any other materials you would like to use please bring with you; we will send out a suggested material list before the start of your course.   

What to bring

You are encouraged to bring your own additional materials for personal use only, to the studio. 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

Ella Walker loading=
Ella Walker

Tutor, Drawing Year Alumni, 2018

Nell Brookfield loading=
Nell Brookfield

Tutor, Drawing Year Alumni, 2018