Where do “good drawings’ come from? To keep the image alive on the page is no easy thing. It happens when we are present to our senses, the body, the model, the room.
On this course we will be encouraging stronger presence and focusing the attention inward, on our sensory experience of a breath or a line. We will utilise techniques from the world of mindfulness and meditation to guide us towards qualities of openness, connection and awareness in our drawing. Each class will emphasise a different aspect of mindfulness practice and include short, guided meditations and gentle mind-body exercises.
Through drawing the model in this way, we notice our resistances and then work to challenge and free ourselves of self-imposed limitations. The act of drawing becomes a guide to the mind and to the ever-changing nature of perception.
Please note that everyone will be asked to switch their phones off for the duration of these sessions to allow for a stronger connection between the mind and the body (presence).
Who is it for
Beginners welcome. No experience of drawing required.
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)
