Portrait Drawing – Summer of Culture 2026

Dates:

Monday 3rd – Wednesday 5th August 2026

Timings: 10am – 4pm 

Across three full days, this portrait drawing course explores the human head through close observation, helping participants develop their understanding of anatomical structure, facial proportions and features. Through a series of practical exercises, participants will learn how to compose a portrait that conveys mood and reveals character, while exploring a range of linear and tonal approaches to portrait drawing.

The course includes drawing from a variety of clothed live models and offers the opportunity to explore different techniques for depicting the head from multiple viewpoints. Two half-day sessions will focus on structure, features and proportion through drawing from skulls and simplified sculptures of the head, providing a strong foundation before progressing to work from live models.

All participants will work from an easel, either sitting or standing, in a supportive studio environment that encourages both technical development and creative exploration.

Who’s this course for? 

Suitable for adults, beginners and those with some experience. A little general drawing experience would be helpful but is not essential.

What to bring:

A drawing pad or plenty of A3 or A2 cartridge paper and/or coloured paper

3 or 4 sheets of mid-toned paper (brown or grey recommended)

A collection of drawing pencils (HB, B, 2B, 4B, 6B)

1 or 2 coloured pencils (any colour of your choice)

An eraser

A box of mixed-sized willow charcoal

Conte or pastel pencils in white and black (and colours if you wish)

2 sheets of A2 tracing paper

Masking tape

2 bulldog clips

A ruler

A mono-zero eraser

Optional: You may also like to have an A4 or A5 sketchbook, folder for handouts, any other personally preferred drawing materials such as pastels, paint, or pens.

Tutor Bio:

Emily Burton holds a BA in Graphic Design, specialising in illustration, and an MA in Drawing. With nearly twenty years’ experience teaching a wide range of art courses, she brings both expertise and enthusiasm to her classes.

Emily enjoys working with adults of all levels, valuing the humour, life experience and curiosity they bring. Her teaching is clear and structured, yet responsive to the needs and individuality of each student. She aims to create a supportive environment that nurtures confidence while also challenging those with more experience.

In both her teaching and personal practice, Emily encourages rigorous observation and creative experimentation.

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