Monochrome Portraits

In this session we will use photography as a starting point for creating monochrome portraits using creative lines, marks & “mess” using pencils, pens and wash.

Photography really is used as a sketching tool by many artists – it is not “cheating”. The trick is to actively USE your photographic sources and not just slavishly copy them. You’ll have more fun and the results are much more exciting. Working from photographs you’ve taken yourself is always the best idea but be sure to select something with clear shapes and forms.

We’ll begin by analysing your photo[s]. What are the key elements of the composition? How can we make the most of them?

You will be guided through a variety of exciting ways to create drawings of faces using pencil and/or pen and wash.

We’ll also discuss how to develop these ideas as starting points for drawings/paintings, or for other projects such as pottery decoration or textile designs. Advice will also be available about using simple computer adjustments to provide more interesting photographic “sketches”.

Anyone who wants to have some fun; from beginners who want step by step guidance to those with more experience who want to push boundaries. Have the security and practicality of starting with a photographic image but gain confidence and be inspired to take your drawings in new directions.

Children aged 14 – 18 can take part with a participating adult.

Just yourself and the enthusiasm to give it a go is enough as a range of images for you to choose from and all the materials you need will be provided. You're very welcome to use your own favourite art materials too of course and if you would like to work from a specific photograph then by all means bring it along. Please avoid images of celebrities though and try to make sure your subject is clear, with strong contrasts of light and shade.

A folder containing all the experimental ideas and drawings you've developed from your photos together with some samples of the pens, pencils, papers and other materials used in the workshop. You'll also of course take home a wealth of ideas for further work of your own.