05/29 Intro to Portrait Drawing Workshop

This workshop will introduce students to the fundamental techniques of portrait drawing, guiding them through a clear, step-by-step process to create expressive and accurate likenesses.

Description

This workshop will introduce students to the fundamental techniques of portrait drawing, guiding them through a clear, step-by-step process to create expressive and accurate likenesses.

Starting with the essential Block-In stage, students will learn how to map out proportions and structure, laying the groundwork for a strong and balanced composition. From there, the focus will shift to developing value and shadow, helping bring form and depth to the portrait. As the drawing progresses, students will explore how to refine features and gestures to convey character, mood, and emotion.

Whether you're a total beginner or a more experienced artist looking to sharpen your skills, this class provides a supportive and encouraging environment for growth at every level.

To ensure that each student receives ample individual attention, this workshop is limited to a maximum of 8 participants.

About the Instructor

Dustin Adamson (b. 1987) is an emerging American artist trained in the classical tradition of painting and drawing. Dustin has a strong interest in the art and techniques of the old masters, from the Renaissance to the nineteenth century. After graduating in 2010 from with Distinction from San Diego State University, he began to study figurative drawing, painting, and sculpture with Justin Hess and Alicia Ponzio and human anatomy with Noah Buchanan. After studying for several years in the Bay Area he moved to New Jersey and studied at the Florence Academy of Art US. There he studied intensively an academic curriculum grounded in the 19th-century classical-realist tradition.

During his studies at the Florence Academy of Art US, Dustin received numerous awards and scholarships; including an award for Painting of the Year and the position of teaching assistant.

Supply List

- 1 Sheet of Toned paper (Strathmore Charcoal 500 Smoke Grey or Blue Grey or similar)
- Graphite Pencils: 2H, HB, 2B, 4B
- General’s White Charcoal
- Pencil Sharpener with Canister
- Small Kneaded Eraser
- White Vinyl Eraser
- Tombow Mono Zero, Round
- Hog Bristle Fan Brush Size 3 or 4
- Drawing board large enough for your paper (Toteboard with clips or foamboard with bulldog clips)
- Masking tape to tape your paper to the board
- Small notebook for taking notes

Recommended Art Stores:
- California Art Supply, San Mateo
- University Art, Redwood City

Both stores will offer you a student discount if you let them know that you are taking a class at Pacific Art League.

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