From Rubens to Rembrandt, Gentileschi to Goya they all have qualities we admire and want to learn from. This course looks at how we can approach these works with a view to creating for ourselves something that goes further than an academic copy
We can all be taken aback by the incredible scale and skill of the great masters. While copying the work directly gives us incredible insight into its creation, how do you use the work to make something decisively your own invention? You can take from that painting all the elements you need for your own outcome, without the fear of imitation.
Over the course of five weeks, we will work through several different methods to use paintings as a jumping off point, and you will be encouraged to feedback to one another and share ideas. Students will combine observation of their surroundings with photos, objects, memory, a life model and even more references to masterworks to create something with personal meaning.
Who is it for
Beginners welcome. No experience of drawing required.
What’s provided
For our online courses, you will receive prior to the start of the course access to our Padlet Noticeboard where you will be given course details, material lists and some references, as well as our Padlet Gallery where you will be able to upload and comment on work created during the course.
What to bring
For our online courses, you must provide your own materials. Feel free to use any that you would like to during classes, however other suggestions may be posted on the Padlet noticeboard throughout the course by tutors. This is a suggested list of what may be needed:
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.
Art & Design teachers/tutors, from Primary and Secondary to Further and Higher Education: 50% Send a letter from your headteacher, dean, or head of art department on headed paper.
Jobseekers: 50% Send a recent DWP or JobCentre Plus letter confirming you receive Jobseeker’s Allowance. 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.
RDS 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)
