| aidemia--modules-lessonstartideas_type | Give a creative idea how to begin a lesson |
| Which subject | Art |
| What age group | Adult courses |
| What topic | Basic Portrait Drawing in pencil or charcoal |
| Quantity | 1 |
| Any other preferences |
Imagine walking into a cozy café in Wellington, the scent of fresh coffee wafting through the air. You catch a glimpse of a watercolour painting on the wall—an ethereal portrait of a stranger, their eyes holding a story, their smile a mystery. The artist has the ability to not just capture a likeness, but to evoke feelings, memories, and connections. Today, we embark on a journey to develop that very skill: the art of portrait drawing.
Before we dive into materials and techniques, let’s take a moment to create the right state of mind. Clear your desk of distractions, take a deep breath, and let the soft sounds of nature inspire you. As adults, we often forget the power of our environment; today’s lesson will be about engaging with the subject not just as artists, but as storytellers.
What makes a portrait captivating? Is it the subject's expression, the way light dances on their features, or perhaps the subtle nuances of personality that come through the lines and shadows? Take a minute to scan your surroundings or your mind—think about someone whose portrait you would love to draw.
Activity: Pair up with a partner for a brief discussion. Share who your chosen subject is and why they intrigue you. What emotion do you wish to convey in your portrait? This exercise encourages dialogue and deepens your understanding of the human form—an essential step in portraiture.
Once you’ve settled on your subject, let’s move to the tools of the trade. Today we will work with:
As we step into learning the techniques of basic portrait drawing, remember: each stroke is more than just a mark; it’s a step toward understanding the person behind the canvas. Together, we will explore shapes, values, and expressions that will help you translate the dynamic beauty of the human face onto paper.
Prepare to put your skills to the test and bring perspectives alive through your art. Let’s draw!