Course Code WC2302043
Tutor James Otto Allen
Course Dates Saturday & Sunday, 20th - 21st January 2024
Days 2
Times 10.00am – 5.00pm
Experience Level Ages 18+, Beginner+
Fee £190
Location Art Academy London, 165A Mermaid Court, SE1 1HR

This life drawing course is designed to help you gain a deeper understanding of the human figure from an anatomical perspective.
The course will cover basic drawing principles, exploring the structure of the skeleton first and then analysing the muscles that define the surface appearance of the body. The aim is to create a series of studies looking at each section of the body to then understand how each component fits as a whole. You will learn how to draw from the inside out, integrating musculoskeletal knowledge and observational skills to produce accurate drawings of the human figure.

This course is suitable for students at our Beginner + level.

  • Beginner +

    Choose a Beginner + course if you are looking to hone your skills, focus on a specific subject area and build your confidence. These courses are suitable for those with some basic skills in and knowledge of the taught medium, but still follow a structured path with guidance from the tutor.

Other course levels include:

  • Beginner

    Choose a Beginners course if you are looking for a broad introduction to the medium you are studying. Students spend time learning the very basics of the taught medium, for example, how to mix colours, use different tools, set up an easel. Our Beginner courses are suitable for students with no prior experience, they tend to follow a more structured path than our other courses, ensuring each student receives the guidance they need from the tutor.

  • Intermediate

    Our Intermediate courses are suitable for students who have considerable prior knowledge of the taught medium or have completed a Beginners/Beginners + course with the Art Academy.

    These courses tend to be less structured and instead are tailored to the classes’ needs and the direction they want to advance in. Choose an Intermediate course if you are looking to improve your skills and have more critical discussions around the work you produce.

  • Advanced

    Choose our Advanced courses if you have considerable knowledge in the taught medium. You are expected to be able to work independently and have critical discussions around your work.

     Our Advanced courses include our Masterclasses.

All attendees must be aged 18 or over.

The tutor’s list:

Selection of lead pencils (2B, 4B, 6B)
Willow charcoal sticks
Pastel pencils, coloured pencils (optional)
Putty rubber​​
Eraser

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You will need to bring your own drawing materials to the class, which you can store at The Art Academy for the duration of the course. If you do not have your own materials, we recommend you order the Pack, below, at the time of booking, which will be available when you arrive for your first class. There is also a mini shop in the Academy that supplies the basics such as pencils, sketchbooks, putty rubbers etc. (card purchases only).

The Drawing Pack contains:

One set of lead pencils (2B, 4B, 6B)
One box of medium willow charcoal sticks (25 pieces)
One ​box ​of willow charcoal extra thick​ individual​ stick
One stick of chalk
One box of compressed charcoal sticks (12 pieces)
Six ​D​erwent pastel pencils, can be used wet or dry
One putty rubber​ in a box​
One eraser
O​n​e auto lock knife (pencil sharpener for Drawing in Museums)

Please note that pack contents are subject to change at the discretion of the Academy at any time

JAMES OTTO ALLEN

James Otto Allen studied Fine Art at Camberwell College of Arts, Accademia delle Belle Arti, Viterbo, Italy and gained a BA in Fine Art from the University of Wales, Cardiff. He was awarded the Harry Holland Prize for ‘Best Figurative Artist’ on graduating and his work has been shortlisted for the BP Portrait Awards. James exhibits regularly with the ‘Royal Society of Portrait Painters’ and his work has also appeared in the ING Discerning Eye and Painter Stainers Company exhibitions. He studied anatomy and biomechanics, aligning his figurative work with the discipline of scientific study of the human body. James has over 15 years experience teaching art and workshops to students of all levels. In his studio while executing commissions and paintings, he surrounds himself with anatomical plaster casts of skulls, torsos and other anatomical aids for constant reference. 

Mermaid Court

165A Borough High Street
London SE1 1HR
tel: +44 (0) 207407 6969

Nearest Tube/ Rail: London Bridge or Borough (both a 5 minute walk).

Please note that London Bridge has two exits, the most direct route is to follow signs to “Borough High Street”.

Students are welcome to use our Common Room/ The Barn during break times, where you can prepare hot drinks and/or food.

You are also welcome to make tea or coffee.

  • You will need to have paid in full before the first session of your class. Your place is not guaranteed until we have received full payment. Please book early in order to guarantee your place on the course.
  • If you purchased a pack online this will be given to you on the first session of your course upon your arrival. Packs can be purchased on our Materials Page or on the individual course page when you make your booking.
  • Please don’t wear your best clothes as there is always a chance you will get messy. If possible bring an apron or overalls.
  • All artwork MUST be taken home at the end of the course or it will be disposed of. Paintings that need to dry should be collected within a week. For clay sculptures that need hollowing and firing, you will receive a separate email when they can be collected.
  • Please ensure that your mobile phone is switched off or is on silent during the class.
  • Health and Safety Guidelines will be provided to you at the beginning of your class.
  • Sometimes our photographer will pop in to get some images of our classes in progress. We will typically inform you beforehand if photography is taking place during your class; if you do not want to be photographed please let the photographer know!
  • To find out more about what’s going on at the Academy follow us on Facebook, Instagram or Twitter. If you’d like to share images of your course, your progress or your finished work we’d love to see them! Please bear in mind you must have the permission of tutors, other students and models to photograph them.
  • If you would like more information or advice on courses at the Academy please contact shortcourses@artacademy.ac.uk.
  • For further details please see our Short Courses: Regulations & Policies page.

“Tutor was excellent and there is a really nice atmosphere at the Academy. I am a complete beginner and everyone is treated with respect. My experience has been great and I have recommended it to friends. I also plan to do other courses!”

From: £190.00