The human figure is a complex structure comprising a multitude of physical and emotional variations. We all relate to it because we see reflections of ourselves and our lives, experiences, feelings and desires. Bodies throughout human civilization have been used to convey narrative, cultural and spiritual meanings and it is no wonder some of the first expressions of human creativity involved a human body, whether that be cave paintings or sculptures. Empathy is found in this connection of outward and inward looking. Although there are basic proportions and similarities within the figure, we are all unique, and the opportunity to look and study the forms and relationships of the model and their surroundings is invaluable to anyone pursuing the study of art.

Sustained observation of the human form gives us the chance to immerse our attention too, into various dimensions of the pictorial language. Students will have the opportunity to engage closely with many concerns that inform the artistic perception such as composition, volume, depth and expression. Having the consistency of one model in one pose for the day allows us the time to see more. It gives us the time to work with the challenges that we face in the drawing. In the present day we can become accustomed to the speed and ease of images that come our way, resulting in a distracted attention and often a surface that goes no deeper. In practicing looking for longer we learn patience, perseverance and concentration, discovering previously unknown subtleties. Thus, through humility and a willingness to find more, we lay a path that may in time reveal a greater depth of individual artistic vision. One to one tuition, group discussions and demonstrations will guide the students through their personal efforts of realising the complexity of the human figure. We will learn to walk before we run. All levels welcome, including beginners.

Please note that due to Bank Holidays, there are no classes on 6 May and 27 May.

Free charcoal, newsprint and masking tape are provided in the Studios. There is an added paper fee for the use of cartridge and watercolour paper throughout the course. 

Public Courses FAQs | The Royal Drawing School

NHS staff receive a 20% discount; to apply participants must submit proof by emailing a photograph of their NHS staff badge to admin@royaldrawingschool.org before booking a course. 

Full-time BA students studying for a degree in Fine Art receive up to a 75% discount. Those studying on design or applied arts degrees may also be eligible on a case-by-case basis. Student ID and proof of enrolment must be submitted. Please email a picture of your student ID to admin@royaldrawingschool.org and wait to receive confirmation that your concession has been approved before booking. 

Primary and secondary school teachers who teach art receive a 50% discount; to apply participants must submit proof in the form of a letter from their head teacher or the head of the art department. Please e-mail a scan of this letter to admin@royaldrawingschool.org and wait to receive confirmation that your concession has been approved before booking. 

Individuals on job seekers allowance receive a 50% discount; to apply participants must provide evidence that you're receiving Jobseeker’s Allowance. Just provide a recent letter from JobCentre Plus/DWP confirming you're in receipt of this benefit. Unfortunately, we cannot accept Jobseeker’s Allowance appointment booklets as valid evidence. You may also apply if you receive Universal Credit under the conditions of being out of work. Please send a copy of your proof/official letter to admin@royaldrawingschool.org and and wait to receive confirmation that your concession has been approved before booking. 

Individuals who receive disability support are eligible for a 50% discount; to apply participants must submit proof that they are currently receiving this allowance. Please email a scan of your letter to admin@royaldrawingschool.org and wait to receive confirmation that your concession has been approved before booking. 

Tower Hamlet and Hackney residents are eligible for a 25% discount on courses at Shoreditch; to apply participants must show proof of living in these boroughs in the form of your most recent council tax bill. Please email a scan of your letter to admin@royaldrawingschool.org and wait to receive confirmation that your concession has been approved before booking. 

Tower Hamlet and Hackney businesses are eligible for a 25% discount on courses at Shoreditch during the Autumn Term; to apply participants must show proof of working in these boroughs in the form a staff ID, business card, or headed letter from your line manager. Please email a scan of your proof to admin@royaldrawingschool.org and wait to receive confirmation that your concession has been approved before booking. 

Individuals over the age of 60 may apply for a 10% discount on courses at Shoreditch; to apply participants must show proof of being over 60. Please email a picture of your ID to admin@royaldrawingschool.org and wait to receive confirmation that your concession has been approved before booking. 

Alumni of the Royal Drawing School's Postgraduate programme and Foundation Year receive a 50% discount on courses

Alumni of the Online Drawing Development Year receive a 50% discount on online short courses.

To apply for a concession:

  • first submit any documents/proof pertaining to the concession you are applying for, to admin@royaldrawingschool.org. 
  • wait for an email confirming your concession has been approved before booking and paying for your course.

Please check that your evidence:

  • is dated within the last 6 months from the start date of your course, or within the last year if pertaining to council tax. 
  • shows your name as a claimant
  • is presented to us in one of the following formats: PDF, JPG, .DOC or .DOCX

All of our course rates are subsidised and we also offer a comprehensive concessions scheme. View all course fees and concessions.

Featured image by Lily Snowden-Fine