Oil painting: the expressive portrait
Weekend-long practical course
16 November 2019 10.30am - 5.30pm17 November 2019 10.30am - 5.30pm
The Clore Learning Centre, Burlington Gardens, Royal Academy of Arts
£520. Includes all materials, light refreshments and a wine reception at the end of day one.
Lucian Freud: The Self-portraits
With special focus on the philosophy behind the creative process, this two-day portrait painting course in oils will explore the idea that the portrait is more than a copy of the face.
In this course, participants will learn how to look at the model rather than make assumptions about how a portrait should look. Using the impasto technique and limited palette, you can learn how to apply oil paint liberally to the canvas whilst accurately maintaining the structure of the face and head.
Day one will begin with a demonstration by the tutor, followed by a series of quick oil sketches of the model. Each sketch will familiarise you with the model and limited palette. Painting quickly also means that you will ‘react’ to what you are seeing, rather than working in a more studied and measured manner.
On the second day, there will be the opportunity to work on a larger, more sustained portrait that will allow a deeper enquiry into the tonal, chromatic and emotional nuances of the model.
Each student will receive personalised feedback from an experienced professional artist and take part in an art crit whereby you will get feedback on how your work is understood and can be developed further.
£520. Includes all materials, light refreshments and a wine reception at the end of day one.
Lucian Freud: The Self-portraits
About the course
This two-day intensive oil painting course with award-winning artist Tim Benson will be held in the new Clore Learning Centre in Burlington Gardens.
Practical painting sessions using professional life models will be combined with short demonstrations using Freud's characteristic technique of impasto, using a limited colour palette.
There will be opportunity for informal discussion and one-to-one feedback with the tutor throughout the weekend.
Participants are advised to bring something to carry their work home in, as there are no storage facilities available.
This course is suitable for all levels, but participants will ideally have some prior experience of drawing, painting or another creative practice.
This course is for you if:
• You have some prior knowledge of drawing and/or painting and would like to extend your skills in the practice of working from direct observation
• You would like a new perspective in your approach to drawing and painting
• You would like the opportunity to develop your skills within a small group in the historic setting of the Royal Academy
• You have no prior experience of drawing and painting, but have an interest in the history, theory and practice of art more generally
Minimum age 18
Please let us know if you have any accessibility needs.
The number of participants is strictly limited to enable detailed feedback from the course tutor.
£520
Saturday 30 November - Sunday 1 December 2019
10.30am-5.30pm both days
Includes:
• An introduction to the Academy with particular reference to works in the Lucian Freud: the Self-portraits exhibition
• Exclusive access to the RA's new Clore Learning Centre
• All specialist practical materials
• Refreshments provided on both days
• A drinks reception at the end of the first day
• A certificate of participation upon course completion
About the tutor
Tim Benson
Tim Benson is a practising artist specialising in oil portraiture. He is President of the Royal Institute of Oil Painters and member of the New English Art Club. He regularly exhibits with the Royal Society of Portrait Painters and at the BP Portrait Award at the National Portrait Gallery. His work is held in collections internationally. In the last few years, Tim has collaborated with charities and NGOs to build awareness of important national and international issues through his portraiture.
Our courses and classes programme
Our varied programme of short courses and classes provides an opportunity to explore subjects ranging from life drawing to the history of exhibitions and arts management, led by expert tutors and practising artists. These courses introduce traditional art-making processes, as well as perspectives on art history, theory and business.
Give this course as a gift
All of our courses can be purchased as a gift for a friend or family member – giving the gift of education and a remarkable experience. To arrange a personalised Gift Voucher, please contact Anna Pojer, Academic Programmes Manager, by calling 020 7300 5684 or email anna.pojer@royalacademy.org.uk
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