Portraits express power, passion and harmony, and life. Today, Portraiture is more important than ever. In a world becoming less and less sensitive to the human condition, the more important portraiture becomes for preserving our humanity, culture, care and love. With reference to classical and contemporary techniques learners will be guided and supported building their confidence to create wonderful portraits. The aim of the course is to make striking and unique portraits that capture 'likeness' and are anatomically convincing. Working from life models, students will be taught how to look and record the form and character of the human head. They will use a variety of materials to produce works in line, tone and colour.
Course aim
With reference to classical and contemporary techniques, learners will be guided and supported building their confidence to create wonderful portraits of both the self and of others. They will learn the principles of form, tone and colour.
Do I need any particular skills or experience?
- No skills or experience needed
- This course is suitable for beginners and improvers
By the end of the course I should be able to:
- Demonstrate a basic knowledge of the anatomy of the human head.
- Demonstrate knowledge to make portraits using a variety of materials.
- Develop an understanding for mixing paint to create skin tones.
- Develop an understanding for composition through their portrait.
- Demonstrate contextual awareness for a range of artists who make portraiture a focus of their art.
How will I be taught?
- The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning
- You may be asked to undertake additional work in your own time to support your learning
What kind of feedback can I expect?
- A range of informal activities will be used by the tutor to see what you are learning which may include quizzes, question and answer, small projects and discussion
- You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor
- You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning
- You will be encouraged to consider other students work and give your opinions and suggestions
What else do I need to know?
- A selection of materials and basic equipment will be provided but you are welcome to bring additional materials with you
- It would be helpful if you had access to the internet (Mobile phone, tablet or computer at home or through a library etc.)
Pre-course work, reading and information sources
- No pre reading or pre course work is required
What can I do next?
- Progress to another WEA course
- Progress to a course with another provider
- This course could lead to a range of job opportunities. Follow link to National Careers Service for more details https://nationalcareersservice.direct.gov.uk/
- Become involved as a volunteer for a WEA partner or another organisation
- You could progress to Higher Education courses. Follow link to the PEARL website for information http://pearl.open.ac.uk/
- Access the WEA What Next? booklet here http://www.wea.org.uk/learn-wea/what-can-i-do-next
Download full course information sheet
