Observational Drawing: Focus on the Figure 5-day course | 06 - 10 July 2026

Discover the intensely investigative process of observational drawing, which underpins all aspects of practical work at the Art School, and develop techniques and strategies to help you explore this practice in relation to the human figure. We use a variety of media to explore the structure, volume, movement and anatomy of the human figure.

'Thomas Merrett is a wondeful teacher of life drawing. I am a sculptor and have been to many life drawing classes and workshops, but Thomas is easily the best teacher I have experienced. He is calm, measured, has so much knowledge and expertise and shares all of his experience in a generous and informative way. Fantastic course!' Samantha

This intensive course will enable artists and makers with diverse backgrounds and experience to engage with observational drawing through a range of ideas and approaches in response to the figure. Each day will provide an overall structure and focus, whilst responding flexibly to develop individual abilities and interests.

We’ll introduce you to each new approach through speculative first thoughts and sketches, but also through more sustained drawings that will give you time to explore and develop your ideas over longer sessions. Using a variety of drawing materials you will be able to experiment and develop your drawings through both linear and tonal approaches.

Emphasis will be given to three-dimensional form by investigating structure, volume, movement, weight and the anatomy of the figure. Fundamental drawing concepts and tools that enable the construction of a drawing will be explored through measurement, proportion and scale.

Throughout the course there will be lots of discussion and review, with a diverse range of relevant drawings to provide context to further support and stimulate your drawing experience.

You’ll leave the Art School with a range of very personal drawings which evidence your evolving drawing practice, and reflect your interests and approach. Thanks to the small class size and highly personalised attention, you’ll have gained in confidence, and have the tools to develop your drawing further in the future. A very challenging but satisfying week!

What’s included: all teaching, and most materials including drawing materials.

What isn’t included: your meals, and please bring a notebook and pen from home if you like to make notes.

10% discount available for City & Guilds of London Art School students, alumni and staff. Contact to receive the discount code.

Please note: in accordance with Eventbrite's Terms of Service, Eventbrite's fees are non-refundable. Any refunds made for Summer School bookings will have Eventbrite's fees deducted, unless we cancel the course. For more information, please see our terms and conditions.

'It was very enjoyable from start to finish. Tutor was incredibly informative and clear, everyone was very friendly and I learnt a lot in a relatively very short amount of time.' Tia

If you’d like to keep up to date with news about our Summer School courses, please add your details to our Summer School mailing list. If you have any queries, please email us at [email protected]

Any queries? Take a look at our FAQs page and for further help, please contact us at [email protected]

The Art School thanks The Grocers’ Charity for their generous support of this initiative.

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