Instructor: John Nymberg
Mondays, 10AM - 12PM
August 31 - September 28, 2026 - NO CLASS 9/7 LABOR DAY!
Open to ages 18+

Develop confidence in drawing the portrait and human figure in this beginner-friendly course for adults of all skill levels.

Through a series of guided exercises and finished drawings, students will learn the fundamentals of proportion, gesture, contour, measuring, and shading. Working from instructor-provided photo references, you'll create both portrait and figure studies while building the skills needed to draw with greater accuracy, expression, and dimensionality.

Portrait & Figure Drawing Essentials

Name: Portrait & Figure Drawing Essentials
Price: 70 USD
Availability: InStock

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Week 1: Portrait Fundamentals
Learn the foundations of portrait drawing through measuring, tilts, and plumb lines. Students will establish accurate structure and proportion while creating a framework for the toned-paper portrait developed later in the course. Instructor-provided photo references will be used.

Week 2: Figure Gesture Drawing
Explore the human figure through quick gesture sketches based on dancing and action poses. Emphasis will be placed on capturing movement, rhythm, and the overall energy of the pose.

Week 3: Toned-Paper Portrait
Using toned paper, graphite, and white pastel, students will build on the structural framework established in Week 1. Focus will shift to rendering light and shadow to create form, depth, and dimensionality.

Week 4: Figure Drawing: Proportion & Contour
Building on gesture work from Week 2, students will take a slower, more analytical approach to figure drawing. Measuring, plumb lines, and contour drawing techniques will be used to improve accuracy and proportion.

Portrait & Figure Drawing Essentials

Portrait & Figure Drawing Essentials: Weekly

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The Middletown Arts Center has taken the AAM Pledge of Excellence.

The Middletown Arts Center's mission is made possible in part by an investment of public funds from the Ohio Arts Council (OAC). The OAC is a state agency that funds and supports quality arts experiences to strengthen Ohio communities culturally, educationally, and economically

Proudly supported by the City of Middletown.

Portrait & Figure Drawing Essentials

Portrait & Figure Drawing Essentials: Weekly

_

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Don't miss new classes, exhibits, or other opportunities for creatives! Sign up to receive our emails!

Don't miss new classes, exhibits, or other opportunities for creatives!
Sign up to receive our emails!