Description
Tuesdays, July 15, 22, 29, and August 5
Time: 6 – 8:30 pm
Learn to draw lifelike portraits with confidence in this four-week class designed for beginners and intermediate artists. Using the grid method, create a detailed graphite portrait from a photo reference, step by step. Develop skills in proportion, shading, and facial structure while gaining a deeper understanding of the human face. By the end of the 4-weeks, you’ll complete a realistic portrait.
Please Note: The photo must be clear to work for a portrait. See the attached “Guidelines” for more information on how to choose the best photo for your portrait. Please email your photo to director@falmouthart.org for approval. This is to ensure you are able to draw the best portrait possible.
Week 1: Facial Structure & Grid Setup
- Practice drawing key facial features (eyes, nose, mouth, ears) in your sketchbook
- Learn to create a precise grid over your reference photo and drawing paper using half-inch increments
- Begin laying out the basic structure of your portrait
Week 2: Sketching with Accuracy
- Begin your light sketch using a 2H pencil
- Use a light board and ruler to check proportions and placement
- Focus on accurate line work and structure
Week 3: Building Depth with Shading
- Continue developing the portrait with a range of graphite pencils (HB, 2B, 4B, 6B, etc.)
- Learn shading techniques to build volume and realism
Week 4: Final Touches
- Deepen your values, refine details, and add highlights using an eraser
- Make final adjustments to contrast, texture, and overall finish
Click on the materials tab to see which supplies you need to bring to class.
Scholarship Information:
The Falmouth Art Center is very proud to have a scholarship fund supported by donations from members and friends. It is available for both children and adults who have a great desire to create art. Applications should be submitted to Laura Reckford, Executive Director of the Falmouth Art Center. If you have questions about our scholarship program, email us at info@falmouthart.org or call the art center at 508-540-3304.
Scholarship Information and Forms
Refund policy:
Refunds will not be given within one week of the start of a class. Classes are not pro-rated, and there are no makeups for missed classes. A $25 processing fee is withheld from all refunds.
The Art Center reserves the right to cancel any class or workshop due to insufficient enrollment, in which case tuition will be fully refunded.
If Falmouth Public Schools are closed due to weather conditions, we will be closed and the missed classes will be rescheduled.
Becky Charles is a self-taught portrait artist working primarily in graphite. She works mostly on commission, but enjoys drawing portraits of her family in her free time. She is a licensed art teacher in Massachusetts.