About this Event
THE FLAW x 22 JOHN STREET: PENCIL
Two tutored life drawing sessions exploring graphite, line and the possibilities of the pencil.
For our first programme at 22 JOHN STREET, WC1N 2BY, THE FLAW turns its attention to pencil.
Across two closely tutored sessions, we will work from life using a specially selected four-pencil Blackwing set supplied by Hunter Paper Co., exploring how differences in graphite, pressure, point and handling can change the way we draw.
Each guest will work with four distinct Blackwing cores: Natural, 602, Pearl and Matte, moving from fine construction and controlled line through gesture, tonal work and softer, more expressive graphite.
The first hour of each session is structured around a sequence of short drawing exercises. Longer poses follow, giving time to put those ideas into practice directly from the model.
The programme is open to all levels. It is particularly suited to those wanting to develop a closer understanding of pencil, improve their handling of graphite and become more deliberate in their use of line, tone and material.
SESSION I: JOHN THOMAS
KNOWING THE PENCIL
Thursday 22 October 2026
Doors 6.30pm
Drawing 7.00–9.00pm
With John Thomas
Following his appearance at the closing session of our first season, John Thomas returns to THE FLAW for a special sitting at 22 John Street.
Session I introduces the different qualities of the four Blackwing pencils individually.
Through a series of guided studies, we will work with construction, proportion, line weight, rhythm, gesture and tone, allowing each graphite core to reveal something different about the figure.
The session progresses from short exercises into sustained drawing from the model.
SESSION II: ROB HAMISH JOHNSTON
USING THE PENCIL
Sunday 22 November 2026
Doors 2.30pm
Drawing 3.00–5.00pm
A new model for THE FLAW, Rob Hamish Johnston.
A professional dancer and performer, Rob has appeared in venues around the world and is also known as Ander the Viking. A graduate of King's College London with a growing interest in portrait photography, he joins THE FLAW to sit for artists for the very first time.
Session II looks at how different graphite grades can be used together within a drawing.
Exercises will consider pressure, depth, directional mark-making, edges, erasure and selective emphasis before moving into longer work from the model.
Each session stands alone. Those joining us for both will experience a broader progression through the material.
AT 22 JOHN STREET
The sessions take place at 22 JOHN STREET, a Georgian townhouse in the heart of Bloomsbury, home to a collection of creative meeting spaces.
“22JS believes the best work happens somewhere with a little soul.
Bloomsbury has a long history of this; ideas exchanged over a table, company received warmly, work and hospitality woven together under one roof. That's the spirit at the heart of 22JS. Every room has been shaped with the same care you'd offer a welcome guest.”
ARRIVAL
There is no buzzer at 22 JOHN STREET. On arrival, please give the black front door a firm knock using the lion knocker and someone will come to welcome you in.
YOUR SESSION
Your £60 ticket includes two hours of tutored life drawing, a professional life model and use of the complete Blackwing four-pencil set, alongside artist-quality paper, drawing boards, erasers, Jakar sharpeners. Light refreshments are included. THE FLAW x 22 John Street is a sober event.
Everything required for the session is provided.
Blackwing pencils supplied by Hunter Paper Co.
THE FLAW DRAWING SOCIETY
@theflaw.drawingsociety
SESSION I
🕑: 06:30 PM - 09:00 PM
SESSION I : PENCIL
Host: MICHAEL
Info: Thursday 22 October 2026
Doors 6.30pm
Drawing 7.00–9.00pm
Session I introduces the different qualities of the four Blackwing pencils individually.
Through a series of guided studies, we will work with construction, proportion, line weight, rhythm, gesture and tone, allowing each graphite core to reveal something different about the figure.
The session progresses from short exercises into sustained drawing from the model.
Each session stands alone. Those joining us for both will experience a broader progression through the material.
SESSION II
🕑: 02:30 AM - 05:00 PM
SESSION II: PENCIL
Host: MICHAEL
Info: SESSION II
USING THE PENCIL
Sunday 22 November 2026
Doors 2.30pm
Drawing 3.00–5.00pm
Session II looks at how different graphite grades can be used together within a drawing.
Exercises will consider pressure, depth, directional mark-making, edges, erasure and selective emphasis before moving into longer work from the model.
Each session stands alone. Those joining us for both will experience a broader progression through the material.
Event venue & nearby stays
22 John St, 22 John Street, London, United Kingdom
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