About this course

In this Drawing and Painting - Improvers course in Sittingbourne, traditional and experimental drawing and painting techniques will be explored, including mixed media approaches. By working from both direct observation and from photographic references and sketches, you will encounter a variety of interesting and stimulating subject matter - e.g. landscape, still life, natural forms, etc. Reference will also be made to the work of other artists as appropriate.

By the end of the course you should be able to:
Work from a variety of primary and secondary subject matter.
Make drawings as studies for paintings and to explore and establish compositions.
Select and use the appropriate drawing and painting media, materials and equipment.
Mix colours using basic colour theory.
Use a range of water based painting techniques, e.g. washes, glazes, drybrush, wet in wet, impasto, etc.
Recognise the styles and techniques of selected fine artists.
Work to health and safety guidelines.

There is no homework requirement for this course.

How will I be taught?

Tutors will use a variety of teaching methods including demonstrations, one to one guidance, group discussions and critiques. You will look at the work of contemporary and historical artists and you will keep a sketchbook/notebook and individual learning plan (ILP) to record goals, ideas, processes and progress. Students will need to understand the potential benefit from the programme of study, read and interpret ideas, communicate responses that are clear, logical and understandable and manage your own time. You will undertake critical reflection and evaluation and be motivated to develop creative skills and enhance/develop personal skills.
One to one tutorial guidance, group critiques, self-assessment against learning outcomes stated on the Individual Learning Plan.

What do I need to bring with me?

Please bring to the first session any materials and equipment you have already and that you think would be useful. Advice on what/where to buy will be covered at the first session. Please do not buy anything especially for the course before this. You will need to provide your own materials and these will vary in cost according to the course requirements. During the course, you will need: Small sketchbook, set of graphite pencils/charcoal pencils, pastels, Indian ink, mapping pen, set of paints and brushes (colour list and sizes to be advised), palette, art box, supports for painting, tape(s), fixative.

What can I do next?

Courses are designed to progress students to higher levels of the craft and also to support application to Access to Art and Degree Foundation courses or relevant Craft, Art and Design Degree courses.

What do I need to join the course

For this Improvers course it is recommended that students have completed a Beginners course, or have relevant experience.
Students who have completed a Beginners course or have some experience. It is important to note that art courses are practical and require a degree of manual dexterity.