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Key Facts

  • Starting
    8 Jan 2026
    Location
    Tooting
    Start Time
    13:30
    End Time
    16:00
    Duration
    10 Weeks
    Study Mode
    Part Time Day
    Days
    Thursday
    Start Date
    8 Jan 2026
    Level
    Short Course
    Code
    TABX294TL

    Fees

    19+ Fee
    £ 125

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Figure and Portrait Drawing and Painting

Figure and Portrait Drawing and Painting

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The course will utilise a range of black and white and coloured wet and dry media to develop drawing and painting from the figure and portrait making. The general process will be to harness observation alongside a range of strategies/approaches to promote options/solutions for picture making. This term will utilise tonal values using charcoal, inks and acrylic paints. In particular, one aim will be to target different coloured grounds/surfaces to paint on and venture into collage.

Weekly objectives will be supported with contextual images and discussion/analysis around production. For each session, you can expect one to one support/mentoring to aid your individual development.

Tutor: Richard Lloyd

  • Entry Requirements


    No prior experience is required.

    Enthusiasm for learning and experimenting with portrait painting.

    Willingness to participate in practical exercises and group discussions.

  • Course Content


    You will learn:

    *Understand and apply correct proportions in portrait drawing and painting

    *Explore head rotation and perspective to create dynamic and accurate portraits

    *Develop observational skills to improve likeness and detail in portrait work

    *Use tonal painting techniques to create depth, form, and realism

    *Mix and apply colour effectively for skin tones, highlights, and shadows in portraits

    *Draw inspiration from traditional portrait artists to inform your own style and approach

  • Progression Next Steps


    TABX293TL (2526) - Fine Art - Portrait Drawing And Painting (TL) (T3D). A number of our students use these classes as an opportunity to build up a portfolio of work for art school interviews. Others have found the studies helpful in range of courses and professions.

  • Additional Information


    If you are on low income this course has concessions that may apply to you. Please enquire with the admissions team at Tooting

  • Course Structure


    Duration: 10 sessions, 2 hours each

    Format: Practical, hands-on learning in a large classroom with a mega screen for demonstrations and visual examples

    Sessions will include:

    *Live demonstrations by the tutor

    *Guided practice and individual work

    *Peer and tutor feedback

    *Group discussions on techniques and creative choices

    *Opportunities for independent exploration and refinement of skills are encouraged

  • Assessment Details


    Assessment is informal and based on engagement, progress, and participation. You will receive:

    *Continuous constructive feedback from the tutor

    *Peer feedback in a supportive environment

    *Optional showcase of finished portrait work at the end of the course

    Progress will be measured through skill development, creative confidence, and understanding of portrait techniques rather than formal grading.

  • Teaching and Learning


    The course combines demonstration, guided practice, and independent work to help learners develop confidence and skill in portrait painting. Activities include:

    *Tutor Demonstrations: The tutor will demonstrate techniques for proportion, head rotation, tonal painting, and colour mixing, showing step-by-step how to achieve realistic effects.

    *Guided Practice: Students will work on exercises during class with one-to-one support from the tutor, practising observational skills and applying new techniques immediately.

    *Observation and Sketching: Learners will study live models or reference photographs to develop accuracy in facial features, expressions, and proportions.

    *Colour Mixing Exercises: Practical exercises focused on mixing skin tones, highlights, and shadows to develop a realistic palette.

    *Analysing Traditional Portraits: Group discussions and visual analysis of works by established portrait artists to understand their techniques, composition, and use of colour.

    *Independent Portrait Projects: Students will apply learned skills to their own portrait paintings, with ongoing feedback from the tutor to refine technique and style.

    *Peer Review and Reflection: Constructive group critiques and reflection sessions to encourage self-evaluation, observation of others' techniques, and growth in artistic judgment.