To draw continually, to examine the drawings of others, and to always be consciously aware of nature's limitless structural and dynamic patterns is fundamental to creative growth. Developing the perceptual ability and sensitivities that uncover lasting visual and expressive qualities requires concentration on all of these levels. By deducing through feelings in response to their subjects, students study gestural expression, the shape of volumes and their interdependence and direction and energy to develop character in their work from the live model. Art produced by high school students in this course may be considered for presentation in college application portfolios. This course analyzes the figure as a group of shapes and investigates the ways light is used to see and render those forms.
Students explore tone, value and contrast on and around figural work to show realistic space.
Perceiving the figure as positive and negative shapes and issues of proportion and anatomy are addressed through gesture and schematic breakdown. Working from the figure in various interior and exterior settings, drawing exercises are designed to teach students the techniques of rendering light and shadow. In addition, students are shown ways to establish a convincing illusion of space, visual weight and depth. Participants utilize traditional drawing media. Art produced by high school students in this course may be considered for presentation in college application portfolios.