Fall 2010 Courses and Workshops

DRAWING FUNDAMENTALS: The Foundation Course of The Drawing Studio

This course is an introduction to drawing from observation, the core foundation of The Drawing Studio. The Drawing Fundamentals course serves two purposes: a) to provide the skills with which to see one's world newly, and b) to open the pathway to the wide range of traditional and modern art media available to be learned and mastered. Drawing Fundamentals is designed especially for the beginner with no prior experience, as well as those with some background who are looking to review the principles and current practices as taught at TDS. Many people repeat Drawing Fundamentals from time to time, as a way to deepen their understanding of drawing principles toward a more effective drawing practice.

Drawing Fundamentals is presented as sixteen sessions, divided into two levels of eight-weeks each (DF 1 and DF 2). (Previously called “Parts,” we have renamed them “Levels” to better reflect our recommendation that they be taken in sequence.) Multiple sections of Level 1 and Level 2 are offered continuously throughout the year at our downtown studio as well as various satellite sites. Because both levels follow a standard sequence, a missed session can be made up by attending that same session in another section.

Andrew Rush, who developed the original syllabus, is continuously updating and improving the program with the ongoing feedback of both its master teaching artists and students. Rush compares Level 1 (The Grammar of Drawing) to learning the skills of a musical instrument, while Level 2 (The Materials and Practices of Drawing) is akin to learning how to actually make music with it.

Drawing Fundamentals, Level 1: The Grammar of Drawing

An introduction to the basic languages of drawing and how drawings are used to communicate what and how we observe. A student learns how to distinguish and accurately represent a subject by developing skills in four key areas: shape, edge, light, and space. While many first time students have doubts about their ability to draw, the promise of this course is that you will realize not only that you can draw, but discover the core of what it is to draw, which is how to observe.

Fee: $175 (Associates $160) Students who have paid full the full tuition and completed level 1 may repeat level 1 at half price.

Note: Section letters simply indicate different locations or times for a particular course. Sections are listed by start date. Sections of Drawing Fundamentals Level 1 and Level 2 offered at our satellite sites are also listed separately at the end of this schedule.

DF1.A (main studio)
Taught by Linda Poverman
Four Tuesdays and Four Fridays, 9 am – noon

Sept. 14 – Oct. 8

DF1.B (main studio)
Taught by Meredith Milstead
Eight Wednesday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
September 15 – Nov. 3

DF1.C (main studio)
Taught by Deb Steinberg
Eight Wednesday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Sept. 22 – Nov. 10

DF1.D (main studio)
Taught by Paul Mohr
Eight Saturday mornings, 9 am – noon
Oct. 2 – Dec. 4 (no class Oct. 16 and Nov. 27)

DF1.E (Casas Adobes Congregational—northwest Tucson)
Taught by Paul Mohr
Eight Monday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Oct. 4 – Nov. 22

DF1.F (main studio)
Taught by Leia Zenderman
Eight Thursday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Oct. 14 - Dec. 9 (no class Nov. 25)

DF1.G (new location: Amado, AZ)
Taught by Laura Hudson
Eight Sunday afternoons, 1 pm – 4 pm
Oct. 3 – Nov. 21

DF1.H (main studio)
Taught by Francheskaa
Eight Monday evenings, 6-9 pm
Nov. 1 – Dec. 20

Drawing Fundamentals, Level 2: The Materials and Practices of Drawing
The opening session reviews how the ‘grammar’ lessons of Level 1 are combined to create compositions and introduces the sketchbook as a tool for personal expression. The next three sessions introduce a) the role of expressive drawing to the study of faces, b) the underlying abstract principles of strong composition, and c) communicating the experience of space in drawing.

The last four sessions of Level 2 expand one's experience in a range of tools for drawing, and the relationship of drawing to the wider applications of art. Sessions include: 1) the role of color in drawing; 2) 3D thinking (drawing as sculpture); 3) graphic media as drawing tools (collage, monoprinting, stenciling); and 4) the brush as the tool linking drawing and painting.

Fee: $190 (Associates $170) Students who have paid the full tuition and completed level 2 may repeat level 2 at half price.

Note: Section letters simply indicate different locations or times for a particular course. Sections are listed by start date. Sections of Drawing Fundamentals Level 1 and Level 2 offered at our satellite sites are also listed separately at the end of this schedule.

DF2.A (main studio)
Taught by Lea Zenderman
Eight Wednesday mornings, 9 am - noon
Sept. 8 – Oct. 27

DF2.B (main studio
Taught by Deb Steinberg
Eight Thursday evenings, 6 – 9 pm

Sept. 23 – Nov. 11

DF2.C (Casas Adobes Congregational—northwest Tucson)
Taught by Paul Mohr
Eight Monday afternoons, 2 – 5 pm
Oct. 4 – Nov. 22

DF2.D (main studio)
Taught by Andrew Rush
Eight Tuesday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Oct. 5 – Nov. 23

DF2.E (main studio)
Taught by Paul Mohr
Eight Sunday afternoons, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Oct. 24 - Dec. 19 (no class Nov. 28)

DF2.F (main studio)
Taught by Meredith Milstead
Eight Wednesday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Nov. 17 – Dec. 15 (no Nov. 24) and
Jan. 5 – 19

Fundamentals, level 3
A new course category featuring a number of offerings that expand the skills of drawing fundamentals, levels 1 and 2, in one (or more) of three directions: color, composition/design, or intro to media and genres (landscape, still life, figure, etc.). Courses are listed by start date.

 

From Drawing to Painting
Taught by Mariana Carreras
Prerequisite: DF1&2
Eight Tuesday evenings, 6:15 – 9:15 pm
Sept 7 – Oct. 26

This course is a guided transition from the art of drawing to the application of its principles in the art of painting. Each stage builds upon the previous. We will use the same vocabulary and topics of DF 2 and expand their meaning and awareness as we investigate a new and exciting medium. Students can sign in by stages. Open to those desiring to pursue acrylics or oils.

Stage 1 (Sept. 7-21)
Drawing and composition. Sketches. Investigation in Shape and Line. Choosing the scale. Under drawings in history and on the canvas. Contour and hatching. Texture. The materials of a painter: brushes, palette, paint; tips and use. Methods of layering paint. Three dimensional space, light and shadow. The Deductive technique.

Stage 2 (Sept. 28-Oct. 5)
Building form. Transparent and Opaque pigments and their qualities. Form and its solidity. The role of light in mood and emotion. The Scumbling technique.

Stage 3 (Oct. 12 – 19)
Basics of color. Know your pigments. Glazing with color. Light and our eye. Optical effects you want to know about. Color mixing techniques.

Stage 4 (Oct. 26)
Other painting techniques. Tips in paint application. Using the fan brush. Using the palette knife as a painting tool. The Direct method. Mixed media painting.

Fee: $190 (Associates, $170); Stage 1, $105 ($95); Stage 2 or 3, $75 ($65); Stage 4, $45 ($40)

Basic Line Drawing with Glass Workshop
New Offering in Partnership with Sonoran Glass Art Academy!
Classes held at SGAA, 633 W 18th St.
Taught by Alysa Phiel
Three Tuesday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Section A:
June Sept. 7 - 21
Section B:
Oct. 26 – Nov. 9

Learn the basics of “drawing” in glass. You will first learn the fundamentals of fusing sheet glass, including basic glass cutting, firing temperatures, and composition techniques. Then use your basic cutting skills to create a flat 5”x5” tile. The second week you will make a mixture with glass powders to create an ink that you can use to create line drawings, portraits, landscapes, and anything else you can imagine. You will make a 6”x6” flat line drawing piece. In your final class, combine your skills into a piece that we will slump into a final form of your choice. Bring your visual ideas and sketchbook. No experience required. This class is suitable for ages 9 and up. Note: SGAA and TDS will collaborate on an exhibit of drawing in glass in April 2011.

Fee: $150 (Associates $140), either section; includes 2 flat projects and 1 slumped project; other materials available at cost.

 

Introduction to the Oil Painting Palette and Mixing
Taught by Leia Zenderman
One Saturday, 9 am – 4 pm
September 11

Itching to try your hand at oil painting, but not sure where to begin? This workshop will show students how to arrange a palette with specific, limited colors, mix secondary and tertiary colors, use a simple medium, create a simple design and composition with paint and brush, and use the mixed palette to paint a simple still life.

Fee: $75 (Associates $65)

Figure Drawing
Taught by Paul Mohr
Prerequisite: DF1&2
Section A:
Eight Saturday afternoons, 1–4 pm
Sept. 18 –Nov. 13 (no class Oct. 16)
Section B:
Four Saturday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Nov. 20 – Dec. 18 (no class Nov. 27)

As an outgrowth of their work in Paul’s portraiture classes, many students have requested a figure drawing class. This class uses the anatomy and physiology of the human form to reveal the human being within, which is the most important task of the artist. Basic drawing exercises will deal with the special complexities of the figure as an eloquent expression of human life. This class is ongoing and may be repeated.

Fee: Section A: $230 (Associates $210); Section B: $150 (Associates $135); Sections A&B:$315 (Associates, $285), includes model fees

Drawing Portraits
Taught by Paul Mohr
Prerequisite: Drawing Fund, levels 1&2, or equiv.
Section A:
Eight Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM–12:30 PM
Sept. 19 – Nov. 14 (no Oct. 17)
Section B:
Four Sunday mornings, 9:30 AM–12:30 PM
Nov. 21 – Dec. 19 (no class Nov. 28)

Portraiture combines two special skills: the ability to work from observation, and the patience to allow the relationship between drawer and sitter to evolve. Using step-by-step exercises, those new to drawing portraits will develop an understanding of facial anatomy and light and shade, as well as learn a variety of technical approaches. Continuing students will explore the conventions of portraiture and engage in studies involving longer poses. This course offers ongoing personalized instruction for beginners and continuing students and may be repeated as often as desired.

Fee: Section A: $230 (Associates $210); Section B: $150 (Associates $135); Section A&B:$315 (Associates, $285), includes model fees

Introduction to Color Drawing
Taught by Betina Fink
Prerequisite: DF1&2
Two Thursday mornings, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
September 16 & 23

A short introduction to the practice of using color in drawing. Designed for those newly trained in Drawing Fundamentals who are ready to explore a more developed drawing practice using color. A combination of technical and observational lessons using color pencils and chalk pastels will allow the student to understand the first building blocks in working with color, which is often an exciting yet frustrating experience. A perfect follow up course to Drawing Fundamentals I and 2. A good preparation for Drawing With Color I.

Fee: $85 (Associates, $75); includes most materials.

 

Drawing With Color I
Taught by Betina Fink
Prerequisite: DF1&2
Part I: 4 Thursday Mornings 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Sept. 30 – Oct. 21
Part 2: 4 Thursday Mornings 9:30 am – 12:30 pm
Oct. 28 – Nov. 18

A solid grounding in the fundamentals of how to draw with color, and is especially helpful for students who have recently completed Drawing Fundamentals 1 or 2. It will also be helpful for those who have never been formally trained in how to dynamically use fundamental color theory.  Through technical and observational exercises, participants will practice identifying and creating color harmonies, and using color compositionally and within the structure of creating form in space. Color layering, blending, and general instruction on color pencil and pastel drawing is covered. This course may be repeated.

Fee: either part, $130 (Associates $115); both parts, $190 (Associates, $170)

The Golden Section
Taught by David Kish
Two Monday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Oct. 18 and 25

Ever wonder what the Golden Section is? Add this elegant and useful design tool to your bag of artistic tricks. The Golden Section is a system of proportions that is easily derived geometrically (no number crunching!), and highly adaptable to any medium. We'll discover the Golden Section in famous paintings, classic architecture and graphic design - in fact, it's all around us and has been throughout human history. If you can draw a square, you too can understand and use this inherently beautiful phenomenon of the ages.

Fee: $75 (Associates $65)

Introduction to Oil Painting
Taught by Leia Zenderman
Prerequisite: DF1&2
Eight Monday mornings, 9 am – noon

October 25 – Dec. 13

Course is designed to expand the foundational skills acquired in drawing fundamentals to the oil painting medium. Students will study color mixing, selection of colors for the palette, canvas preparation, mediums, direct/alla prima painting methods, and indirect painting/traditional techniques. Students will become familiar with a glossary of painting terms, and compose and paint a simple still life and portrait.

Fee: $190 (Associates $170)

Charcoal: Earth’s Drawing Tool
Taught by Deb Steinberg
Prerequisite: DF1
Three Wednesday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Nov. 17 – Dec. 8 (no class Nov. 24)

Many students of drawing fundamentals discover charcoal as a drawing medium for the first time. Discomfort with the challenges of a new medium often turns to fascination with the expressive power and energy of charcoal. This class will explore various types of charcoal, ways of working, and grounds.

Fee: $105 (Associates $95)

Intermediate and Advanced Studies
These classes develop experience in and mastery of media, genres (figure, comics, abstraction, etc.), and approaches.

Portrait and Figure Anatomy:
Two-Day Intensive
Taught by Leia Zenderman
Prerequisite: DF1&2 or equiv.; portrait/figure drawing or painting experience
Saturday and Sunday, 9 am – 4 pm
August 28 and 29

This workshop is geared to those engaged in portraiture or figure work who want to bring a new understanding and rigor to their work by grasping the underlying structure of the human body. Work from direct observation of the anatomical structures of the head and body, including distinctions between skeletal and muscular systems, male and female, and youthful and aging bodies.

Fee: $150 (Associates $135), includes model fees

Street Portraits in Color
Taught by Rebecca Olson
Five Thursday afternoons, 2 – 4 pm
September 2 – 30

From street corner, courtroom and zoo come my quick-draw tips to catch life on the fly, in living color. Working with colored pencil, pastel, and watercolor, we’ll aim for quick likeness, with attitude, motion and life, and flair over finish. Watch my demos, and take turns at 20 minute poses. At final session, we may hit the street! A fun portrait intro for beginners, helpful for pros who wish to loosen up.

Fee: $115 (Associates $105)

Creative Spirit, the heart and soul of art making
Taught by Pat Dolan
Prerequisite: DF1; prior experience in a medium of your choice recommended
Six Wednesday mornings, 9 am – Noon
Sept. 8 – 29, Oct. 27, Nov. 3

Ok, you have some of the skills of drawing and have studied different media. Now you want to connect more deeply to both inner and outer worlds and express in your art your unique vision, how you see the world. We will dive into the heart and soul of art making--past fears, self-criticism and excuses into your essence as an artist.

Fee: $165 (Associates $150)

Illusions in Fabric
Taught by Karin Malzan
Prerequisite: basic sewing skills on your sewing machine
Section A
Saturday and Sunday, 9 am - 3 pm
September 11 & 12
Section B
Saturday and Sunday, 9 am - 3 pm
November 20 & 21

Create an abstract fantasy landscape from cotton fabric. We will talk about composition, layering of planes in space and creating the illusion of 3-D by drawing onto the finished composition using oil pastels. Color value and intensity will play into your creative process as well as the use of color temperature to support the illusion of depth. Section A attendance is NOT a requirement for Section B participation.

Fee: $130 (Associates $115)

Abstract Impressionist Painting
Taught by Carolyn Gibbs
Six Monday afternoons, 1:30 – 4:30 pm
Sept. 13 – Oct. 18

This is an opportunity to loosen up your approach and explore expressive painting. Cultivate a sense of play to inspire you and experience a freshness that takes you down unexplored avenues of aliveness. Foundational design elements are observed and new challenges presented to open up your sense of freedom. Supportive critiques at the end of each class are always an educational eye opener.

Fee: $165 (Associates, $150)

 

Abstract Painting Studio
Prerequisite: prior experience with color mixing and acrylic paint
Section A
Taught by Emilia Arana
Eight Monday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Sept. 13 - Nov. 1

Section B
Taught by Lisa Mishler
Eight Monday afternoons, 1 – 4 PM
Oct. 11 - Nov. 29

Designed for all skill levels, and students work at their own pace. We will explore design elements, color theory, experimenting with materials and techniques. Most importantly, we will be tuning in to the authentic artist within, learning to see abstractly. Have fun with the creative process and be open to the unexpected. Students will work in acrylic on large scale surfaces such as full sheets of watercolor paper, or canvas 36x36 or larger. Course can be repeated.

Fee: $190 (Associates , $170)

Tuesday Relief Printmaking Group: the Woodcut
Taught by Joe Marshall
Prerequisite: Drawing Fund, levels 1&2; design/composition experience helpful
Six Tuesday afternoons, 1-4 pm (instruction); 9 am-1 pm (independent work time—other times can be arranged for a small fee)
Session A: Sept. 7 – Oct. 12
Session B: Oct. 19 – Nov. 23

Wood is the original relief material, used for hundreds of years. Each piece of wood is different and unique. Using the grain and figure in a block of wood can open new possibilities. Learning to conceive, carve, and print an image on wood is to some artists close to a religion. Nothing matches it for satisfying and direct art-making, and for learning how to communicate graphically using a “primitive” medium that can be so powerful in the experienced hands.

The course will follow two tracks, one for beginners and the other for more experienced hands. Projects include: choosing suitable themes, block and image preparation, use and care of carving tools, registration and printing, inks and color options, edition protocols, and related topics. We encourage students to enroll in both sections (a total of 12 weeks) if possible, for maximum immersion and value. Limited to 10 students.

Fee: $160 (Associates $145), each session; $260 (Associates $230) both sessions; includes most materials, blocks and paper available at cost.

Professional Practices Peer Group
Facilitated by Katherine Gregg and Catharine Kim Woodin
Prerequisite: Participation in prior “Nourishing the Artist Within” or “Professional Practices” courses
Four Wednesday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Sept. 15, Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8

This workbook driven format helps artists produce more work, creates a safe place to show work in progress, and get positive feedback. This is an experimental peer work group for past class participants, and, if successful, will be expanded to new students in winter.

Fee: $40

 

Envisioning our Built Environment
Taught by David Kish
Prerequisite: DF1&2
Four Saturday mornings, 9 am – noon
Sept. 18 – Oct. 9

Our built environment starts where nature stops and includes more than just buildings: it's nothing less than the physical artifact which we leave behind, and which expresses our human aspirations. In this drawing-intensive class we will investigate and document our human-made downtown surroundings - from the classical orders to manhole covers - through various techniques: line drawing, sketching, rubbing, etc. We'll learn from our existing downtown and consider its future, using art as a means to envision better solutions for urban complexities.

Fee: $130 ($115)

Colored Pencil:  Fast, Loose, and Easy
Taught by Rebecca Olson
Prerequisite: DF1&2 recommended
Six Saturday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Sept. 18 – Oct. 23

Known for detailed realism, colored pencils can also make impressionistic or expressive effects. Easy to carry and clean to use, they’re ideal for a quick sketch, or a study for painting. Learn to see shapes of color in a still life, to compose the connections between objects, draw the warm and cool of light and shadow, edge and fade the negative space, notice how each color affects those around it. People of all skill levels can benefit. Take a painterly approach to making drawings lively and loose, yet solidly structured, growing naturally out of your own vision.

Fee: $165 (Associates $150)

 

Thursday Intaglio Group--Open Lab
Tech Assistance by Andrew Rush
Prerequisite: prior intaglio experience; ability to work independently
Eight Thursdays, 9 am – 4 pm (lab time)
10 am – noon (tech assistance)
Sept. 23 – Nov. 11

For artists with some intaglio experience who would like to set aside a day to work independently, but with critique and technical support from Andrew Rush. Those wanting to begin intaglio studies might consider enrolling in “Nontoxic Methods in Intaglio Printmaking” offered in November-December.

Fee: $160 (Associates $145)

Drawing and Fiber Arts
Taught by Kate Hodges
Prerequisite: DF1&2, additional drawing experience helpful
Four Monday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Sept. 20 – Oct. 11

Perfect for those looking to move from representational drawing to abstraction. We will use natural materials carefully gathered from the desert floor and incorporate them into drawings to create imaginative, thoughtful compositions. Class will strengthen compositional skills as we create drawings that focus on line quality, value, texture, and shape. We will build understanding of abstraction as a tool for stretching the imagination and taking risks. Students will experiment with torn, sewed, or woven paper. We will take a look at the techniques and aesthetics of contemporary fiber artists across the globe who combine drawing and natural materials in their work. We will also explore building our sense of place through art practice, and how the act of drawing potentially creates a deeper sense of connection to the world in which we live.

Fee: $130 ($115)

 

Words and Images: The Artist Book
Taught by Andrew Rush
Eight Wednesday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Oct. 6 – Dec. 1 (no class Nov. 24)

By considering words and images together, this course embarks upon a unique learning strategy to develop a deeper 'cooperation' between the two domains of our intelligence, linear and spatial. Each person will create their own personal artist book, using both words and images drawn from a personal interest or experience. The result might be a single one-of-a-kind work, or designed into a format ready for publication. We will learn two important skills: a) how to weld words and images together into a single art work; b) how to begin from a loosely conceived idea or vision and shape it into an eloquent and clear work of art. Some interest in computer graphics helpful, but not necessary.

Fee: $190 (Associates $170)

Abstract Painting and Mixed Medium Techniques
Taught by Lisa Mishler
Prerequisite: abstract painting experience
Eight Thursday mornings, 10 am – 1 pm
Oct 14 – Dec. 9 (no class Nov. 25)

Students will learn how to begin a new fresh body of work using their own artistic voice. We will use cradle boards, acrylic mediums, and canvas. We will learn how to apply different mediums to create new painting surfaces, and explore the distinctions between transparent and opaque, mineral and modern paints. Expect warm-up paint sketching, painting, and constructive critiques.
This class is recommended for all levels.

Fee: $190 (Associates $170)

 

Figure Sculpture
Taught by Sue Johnson
Six Tuesdays, 9 am – noon
Oct. 19 – Nov. 23

This class is perfect for those interested in sculpture as well as those painters and draw-ers who seek to understand at a deeper level the physicality of the human form. Working in the round helps one to understand mass and volume in a very real, 3-D way. It is a natural progression in art to go from drawing and painting into sculpture. Emphasis is on close attention to anatomy, composition, and bringing the figure to life. Students may focus on the head, figure (quarter life size) or relief. One model for the entire class.

Fee: $195 (Associates $180),includes model fee

 
 

Wire Sculpture
Taught by Kate Hodges
Prerequisite: DF1 recommended
Four Wednesday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Oct. 20 – Nov. 10

Wire sculpture gives students the opportunity to “draw in space” and create something like a three-dimensional drawing. As such, this class will extend drawing fundamentals skills. Using thin gauges of wire, students will create vessels made of wire that emphasize unique shape and form. Students will learn how to spin, turn, twist and weave wire to build three-dimensional objects that also express feeling. The importance of gesture will be emphasized: what does it mean to infuse movement and energy into form? We will look at wire sculptors from different parts of the world to build awareness for this art form.

Fee: $130 (Associates $115)

Plein Air Painting in Watercolor
Taught by Ellen Fountain
Four Wednesday and four Thursday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Two consecutive days at each location:
October 20-21: Silverbell Lake
October 27-28: Honeybee Canyon
Nov 3-4: San Xavier Mission
Nov 10-11: Tucson Mountain Park near the Desert Museum

Fall is ideal for plein air painting in the desert. This format allows the contemplative painter to complete a work started on the first day, or the faster painter to tackle a new view or paint from the same spot but make a new statement about it. We will have a suggested specific focus for each location, but students are always free to work any way they wish. Discussion and sharing at the end of each session. Maps will be posted in advance.

Fee: $190 (Associates $170)

Encaustic Monoprinting
Taught by Maria Arvayo
Saturday and Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm
Oct. 23 - 24

Learn how to create a print on paper of an image made with melted wax on a heated plate. This workshop is geared towards anyone familiar with traditional monoprinting, encaustic painting or anyone curious about either process. Participants will learn different techniques for producing and mounting images. 

Fee: $190 (Associates $170), includes most materials

 

Plant Portraits
Tucson Botanical Gardens
Taught by Meredith Milstead
Two Saturday mornings, 9 am - noon
October 23 & 30

Learn to see the unique qualities and characteristics of The Natural World. Create dynamic drawings and studies of individual subjects with attention to gravity, growth and pattern. Jazz up studio work with new information or simply enjoy communing with nature on a deeper level. Any dry media is suitable for this class.

Fee: $75 (Associates $65)

 

An Ax For The Frozen Sea In Us: Advanced Painting Critique
Taught by Josh Goldberg
Prerequisite: at least one class taken with instructor
Eight Tuesday mornings, 8:30 am -11:30 am
Oct. 26 – Dec. 14

Eight powerfully insightful classes will take students on a personal guided tour of their work. Discussed will be a variety of "ways of seeing and speaking" about the work. Students will learn to develop their own exploratory models of criticism based on realistic judgments. Works critiqued will be treated as a threshold, boundary, or a crossing to explore. Students will confront the subject matter, process, technique, scale, and intention of their work. There will be inquiries into exhibiting, selling, and what it means to be an artist in the 21st Century. THIS IS NOT A STUDIO CLASS. Students are to bring to the critiques finished, problematic, or works in progress. Limited to 12 students.

Fee: $190 (Associates $170)

Portrait Painting Fundamentals
Taught by Mariana Carreras
Prerequisites: DF1&2; portrait drawing experience desirable.
Six Tuesday evenings, 6:15 pm- 9:15 pm
Nov. 2 – Dec. 7 

A portrait is a timeless and powerful subject. In this course we learn about the anatomy of the head and face, historical approaches, special techniques, and tips to achieve the faithful rendering of a sitter. Psychological use of lighting, poses, and genres will also be discussed. Demonstrations, Powerpoint lectures, and individual and group critiques provide the background of our learning experience.

Fee: $195 (Associates $180); includes model fee

 

Exploring Watercolor
Taught by Judy Nakari
Six Friday mornings, 9 am – noon
Nov. 5 - Dec. 17 (no class Nov. 26)

For beginning painters and intermediates, this class will explore aspects of design and composition, color, value, edges, and various techniques. Be ready to open your senses and enjoy the unique thrills of watercolor.

Fee: $165 (Associates $150)

 

Exploring Watercolor—and Beyond
Taught by Judy Nakari
Six Friday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Nov. 5 - Dec. 17 (no class Nov. 26)

This class is intended for those artists who have experience in watercolor; who have taken “Exploring Watercolor” or other watercolor classes; and for those who need a little “jump-start” to expand their artistic abilities with the watercolor medium. As always, we will focus on drawing, design, composition, color, value, and edges, but will learn more about using unusual materials in the process. We will explore painting on different papers such as plate Bristol board, Yupo, hot-press, mylar, gesso, and will experiment with many different techniques and effects. Be ready to really stretch--beyond your watercolor knowledge--and see how your creativity can soar!

Fee: $165 (Associates $150), some materials will be available at cost at class

 

Botanical Landscapes
Tohono Chul Park
Taught by Meredith Milstead
Two Saturday mornings, 9 am - noon
November 6 & 13

 

Generate integrated landscapes inspired by the natural world. Drawing from observation, identify the defining qualities of individual desert plants and compose inviting landscapes. Learn to simplify, edit, and capture the spirit of nature. Answer the questions: Where do I begin? What is important? When do I stop? Any dry media is suitable for this class.

Fee: $75 (Associates $65)

Introduction to Encaustic Painting Workshop
Taught by Pat Dolan
Saturday, 10 am – 4 pm
Nov. 6

Explore the possibilities of Encaustic Painting. The workshop will include demonstrations and hands-on work with transparencies and glazing, layering and scraping, line/edge, and collage techniques. Students will also receive basic information on materials and formulas used in encaustic, supports, tools and techniques for fusion.

Fee: $115 (Associates $105), or combine with encaustic wkshp below for $190 ($170)

 

Encaustic Painting Workshop
Taught by Pat Dolan
Prerequisite: intro to encaustic
Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm
Nov. 7

Workshop will focus on the use of color, which colors are transparent, and how to layer color for the most luminosity, mystery and space. The workshop will include demonstrations focusing on how to create the magical qualities intrinsic to encaustics, pouring, and using drawings as the beginning of an encaustic.

Fee: $115 (Associates $105), or combine with intro to encaustic above for $190 ($170)

 

Colored Pencil:  Portrait and Figure
Taught by Rebecca Olson
Prerequisite: DF1&2 recommended
Six Saturday afternoons, 1 – 4 pm
Nov. 6 – Dec. 18 (no class Nov. 27)

Enhance your figure studies with color. Colored pencils are a versatile medium – clean, portable, easy to store, and ideal for a quick sketch or link to painting. Working from a model, express mood and movement in multi-hued gestures. Practice warm/cool rendering of form in light and shadow, marvel at how many tints make up a complexion, or try out bold, arbitrary or expressive shades. To explore composition and context, models will pose in simple clothing, with backdrops and still life objects. People of all skill levels can benefit from my approach to a livelier life drawing.

Fee: $195 (Assoc. $180), includes model fee

 

Thursday Intaglio Group—Nontoxic Methods
Taught by Jennifer Clarke
Four Thursdays, 9 am – noon (instruction), noon – 5 pm (work time)
Nov. 18 - Dec. 16 (no class Nov. 25)

An introduction to the basic intaglio media of engraving, drypoint, etching, and mixed techniques, with an emphasis on nontoxic alternative technologies. The course covers the steps of developing images as a process, use of tools and chemistry, printing and paper technologies, as well as the real learning advantages of learning in a community studio setting. Beginners and experienced printmakers are welcome. Each person may sample several skills, or focus upon one technique for this session. Limited to 10 students.

Fee: $145 (Associates $130)

Traditional and Contemporary Ink
Taught by Deb Steinberg
Prerequisite DF1&2 or equivalent
Two Thursday evenings, 6 -9 pm
Dec. 2 & 9

If you've ever sketched with a pen or had a taste of ink and brush in drawing fundamentals, you've experienced the joys and complexities of this simple medium with a rich, complex past. We will explore a variety of approaches and stretch the limits of this versatile medium.

Fee: $75 (Associates $65)

 

SATELLITE CLASSES
Please beginning of course listings for a complete description of Drawing Fundamentals, levels 1 and 2.

 

Classes in northwest Tucson
Casas Adobes Congregational Church
6801 N. Oracle Rd.

DF1.E
Taught by Paul Mohr
Eight Monday evenings, 6 – 9 pm
Oct. 4 – Nov. 22

Fee: $175 (Associates $160) Students who have paid full the full tuition and completed level 1 may repeat level 1 at half price.

 

DF2.C
Taught by Paul Mohr
Eight Monday afternoons, 2 – 5 pm
Oct. 4 – Nov. 22

Fee: $190 (Associates $170) Students who have paid full the full tuition and completed level 2 may repeat level 2 at half price.

Playing with Color
Taught by Pat Dolan
Prerequisite: DF1&2, color theory or equivalent
Six Tuesday afternoons, 1-4 pm
Nov. 9 – Dec. 14

Now that you are comfortable with the technicalities of color mixing and basic color theory, you can explore assembling a unique palette of pastels incorporating the subjective qualities of color; the emotion that each color represents. When you choose the colors for your palette, you are creating your own color system that has its own possibilities and limitations. Join this class in a discovery of color and how you can use pastels expressively.

Fee: $165 (Associates $150)

Classes in Oracle

RLV OracleArt Wilson Barn

Oracle Sunday Artists’ Club
Facilitated by Sharon Brady and Andrew Rush
Four Sunday afternoons, 9 am – 2 pm
Begins in October—dates TBA

Less a class than a gathering of working artists, the summer meeting will include time for sharing art ideas and concepts, warm-up exercises, optional thematic focuses, media experimentation, and extended work hours. Leaving the “grid” of urban life, even for a few hours, can open up one’s art making to new experiences of time and space.

Fee: TBA

New Location!
Classes in Amado

DF1.G (Buffalo Son Silkscreen, Amado, AZ)
Taught by Laura Hudson
Eight Sunday afternoons, 1 pm – 4 pm
Oct. 3 – Nov. 21

Drawing Down on the Farm
Agua Linda Farm, Amado, AZ
Taught by Laura Hudson
Prerequisite: DF1&2 recommended
Four Saturday mornings, 9 am – noon
Oct. 2 – 23

October is the Harvest Festival at Agua Linda Farm! Each week we will draw a different aspect of this beautiful organic farm using simple and portable art supplies. We will develop the skills of drawing from observation, and creating compositions from the rows of pumpkins, the animals, the barns and buildings to the majestic backdrop of the Santa Rita mountains. This experience will encourage you to take your sketchbook everywhere you go and record your impressions as you first find them.

Fee: $130 (Associates $115)

 

See our website www.thedrawingstudio.org for additional satellite offerings in the fall.

Fall 2010 Youth, Teen and Family Offerings

 

Youth (9 – 13)

Drawing From Life

Taught by Tanya Rich
Part I:
Three Sundays, 1 – 4 pm
Sept. 5 – 19
Part II:
Three Sundays, 1 – 4 pm
Sept. 26 – Oct. 10

Learning how to draw what you see, from life, is an important first step in creating a strong foundation for making art of any kind, and for strengthening general observational skills in life. Students will practice the skills of observation using a variety of materials, from pencil and charcoal, to pastel and watercolor. Subject matter will include everyday objects, desert plants and insects. Students will practice drawing life like images with attention to light, form and space. Both parts may be taken separately or together.

Fee: each part, $60; both parts, $110

Teens 12 - 18

Build Your Dream Home! Learn how to create realistic architectural models

Taught by David Kish
Four Sundays, 1 – 4 pm.
Nov. 14 – Dec. 12 (no class Nov. 28)

Maquettes (or scale models) have been used throughout history by artists and builders as a way to test new ideas, and to move quickly from 2D to 3D. In this fun class designed for tweens and teens, we’ll build our visual and tactile skills by making miniature Dream Homes with simple materials, and we’ll “think like architects,” considering scale, proportion, physics, context, function…but most of all, imagination!

Fee: $80

Ongoing, for Teens:
Art School Bound: Portfolio Preparation and Review for High School Students Preparing to Apply to Art School
For students preparing an admissions portfolio to college art schools, a private consultation with Youth/Teen Program Director, Betina Fink. Review of student’s portfolio, information on art school admission requirements, and advice and recommendations about what to include and strategies to improve the quality of the portfolio and fill in gaps.

Fee: $50 for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.

 
 

Youth and Teens 9-18 yrs

Desert Critters Drawing and Sculpture

Taught by Kate Hodges
Part I:

Two Sundays, 1 – 4 pm

Oct. 3 & 10 (introductory drawing sessions)
Part II:
Four Sundays, 1 – 4 pm
Oct. 17 – Nov. 7 (drawing with sculpture component)

The desert is a remarkable place, filled with amazing insects that play special roles in this delicate ecosystem. Students will create a desert terrarium with live, non-poisonous desert insects, and then delve into drawing these creatures as we look closely at their bodies and elements of their desert homes. We will imagine what it feels like to have a “bug’s eye view” and explore different perspectives and angles within our compositions. Students will then build a wire sculpture piece, choosing a form to render from the terrarium. Both parts may be taken separately or together.

 

Fee: Part I, $40; Part II, $80; both parts, $110

Comic Illustration

Taught by Joe Marshall
Four Sundays, 1 – 4 pm
October 17 – Nov. 7

Comics are a great way to tell a story. Many elements of creating a visual story will be worked on, including theme, timing, characters, and flow of story. Students are given pre-paneled pages as a template to place their stories. A two-to-four page story will be completed.

Fee: $80

Artist Books: Create Your Own Coptic Bound Sketchbook

Taught by Alice Vinson
One Sunday, 1 – 4 pm
Sept. 12

Each student will create a small, personal Coptic (a decorative type of exposed binding stitch) bound sketchbook that they can then use for drawing, poetry, notes, ideas—the possibilities go on. Students will receive advice (in advance) for bringing their own paper for the “text block” of the book (inside) as well as their own decorative paper to use on the cover of the book. All other materials (sewing silk for binding, needles) provided.

Fee: $20

Families : parent(s) and children (ages 6-18)

Artist Books: Simple Pop-Up Book

Taught by Alice Vinson
One Sunday, 1 – 4 pm
September 19

Participants will make a small, very simple, soft cover, pop-up book. Pop-up methods will include  box pop-ups and triangle pop-ups, as well as using both of these as supports for images that can be glued onto them.

Fee: $20 each person

Mixed Media Book Workshop

Taught by Alice Vinson
One Sunday, 1 – 4 pm
Sept. 26

Use found materials from home, such as paperboard boxes, scraps of paper, paper bags, postcards, yarn, etc. to build a book structure suitable for a mixed media project. The pamphlet stitch and accordion method of binding will be demonstrated as ways of assembling the book, as well as a variety of simple, untraditional methods. Students will be advised in advance about what to bring.

Fee: $20 each person

Open Figure Studio
All TDS open studio sessions are held at The Drawing Studio, 33 S 6th Avenue. Each session is $10. No reservations are required.

  • Sunday morning, 9:30 AM– 12:30 PM, general studies*
  • Monday morning, 9:30 AM – 12:30 PM, general studies*
  • Tuesday evenings, 6 – 9 PM, one long pose, costumed
  • Thursday evening, 6 – 9 PM, general studies*
  • Saturday morning, 9:00 AM– 12:00 Noon, one long pose, nude

 

* “General studies” include short and long poses (2 min. to 1 hr.), usually nude.

Note: Visit our link to Rebecca Olson’s Open Sketch page for the most up-to-date info about model scheduling.

Open Studio Monitors

Rebecca Olson, Carolyn Gibbs, Paul Mohr, Tom Bielejec, Kurt Anderson, Reid Silvern, Pete McCray, Betty Counseller, Steven Judy

 

 

©TDS 2002-2009