Explore new ways of working from the human form that are alternatives to simulating volume in space with linear perspective and light and shadow. Draw and sculpt from the model with unconventional media and implements, such as acrylic applied with plastic knives, sticks, and sponges, and assemblages of wood, branches, and other natural or found objects. Experience how purposely cumbersome tools and fast poses combine to impede traditional rendering and thus generate a variety of shapes, patterns, textures, and lines that are rooted in, but independent of, the model. This immersive and playful process is an excellent introduction to working with abstract elements and learning how to form them into unified, compelling images. Open to all levels.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Steve Nocella
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Paint from a life model in long, multi-class poses to develop and refine your figure painting compositions. Extended poses will allow students to adjust and resolve issues of surface, color, and composition. Instruction will cover a variety of topics including glazing, broken color, surface texture, composition and design, the relationship of the figure to the environment, the creation of atmosphere and color harmony, disrupted realism, and open- versus closed-form painting. All levels welcome. Instruction will be geared toward oil, but students are welcome to draw-only, or use other appropriate media, if they wish. Note: Tuition includes a $35 models fee.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: David Wilson
Cost: $330
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

This workshop will focus on “seeing” accurate color in the skin tones and color mixing, while painting from a live model. We will look at how “light on form” breaks down into simple relative values, how the values affect the color chroma and temperature, and how the color of the light source affects the local color. Instructor will demonstrate how to use a chromatic palette of colors to mix the right value as well as beautiful, luminous skin tones. We will use a grey toned surface so that we can paint directly with color after doing a simple block in. Students can choose whether they want to focus on the portrait or the figure. One-on-one feedback at your easels in a supportive, friendly atmosphere.
 
Location: Wayne, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Ellen Cooper
Sponsor: Wayne Art Center
Website, email, 610-688-3553

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Learn the techniques and tools of figure sculpture through demonstration and hands-on sculpting from the model. Explore anatomy, proportion, gesture, and design through the versatility of clay. Personal expression will be emphasized though representational and abstract approaches. Open to all levels and perfect for beginners. Tuition includes a $35 models fee.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: Colleen O'Donnell
Cost: $230
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Explore the world of portrait painting in a fresh, playful way as you capture your own likeness—or that of a friend—using any medium you love, from oil and acrylics to pastels, pencils, or mixed media. Under the expert guidance of renowned artist and instructor Joyce Nagel, discover countless tips and techniques to bring personality and life to your portraits. Each session is packed with hands-on demonstrations, creative exercises, and personalized feedback, ensuring you gain confidence and skill while having fun. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned painter, this class promises a supportive, inspiring environment where your unique style can shine. By the end, you’ll have your very own expressive portrait to proudly share!
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Instructor: Joyce Nagel
Cost: $100
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

In this three day workshop various techniques for approaching drawing with pastels will be explored drawing with a live model, and instructed by award winning artist, Cliff Austin. For beginner to advanced artists; students with some figure drawing experience will benefit the most.
 
Location: Boulder, Colorado
Instructor: Cliff Austin
Cost: $267
Sponsor: Art of Modeling
Website, email, 831-421-2684

This intensive workshop is designed for those looking to push their portrait drawing abilities toward the professional level. Demonstrations and in-class exercises will open up how you see, think, and approach the creation of a likeness, avoiding common pitfalls. Explore subtleties of form and the relationships of lines, planes and tones, capturing the character and energy of the subject. Additionally, instruction will cover facial expressions and deep anatomy of the face, neck, and upper body. Drawing will be primarily in graphite pencil and stick. Introductory portrait drawing or equivalent recommended. Note: Tuition includes a $10 models fee.
 
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Instructor: RA Friedman
Cost: $205
Sponsor: Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Website, email, 215-972-7632

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Life Drawing, also known as Figure Drawing, is the practice of drawing in order to study the human figure. If you look at historic artwork, you'll find many nude drawings and paintings. These are considered life drawings. Many artists perceive figure drawing as an endless effort with limitless possibility for improvement, learning, and diversity. The range of detail in a life drawing can vary immensely. They can range from highly detailed and anatomically proportional drawings to loose and expressive sketches to gesture drawings, which show the simple form, action and pose. Some popular mediums used during life drawings are charcoal, graphite, pen, ink and pastels. For the longer poses, some may use painting mediums like acrylics or oil.
 
Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina
Cost: $20 for Members / $40 for Non-members
Sponsor: Art League of Hilton Head
Website, email, (843) 842-5738

Absolutely no drawing experience necessary in David Lobenberg’s California Vibe Watercolor Portraiture™ workshop. He uses a reference photo and tracing technique that’s super simple to execute. The creativity and painting fun begins during the painting process! Through his step-by-step demonstrations and question-and-answer sessions, he leads artists down a path of expressive, energetic and evocative portrait painting. Lobenberg has over forty years of experience conducting both studio and plein air water media workshops across the United State, Canada as well as via zoom and his online California Vibe School of Watercolor™. David received his Master’s-in-Art degree from UCLA and has taught for seventeen years (now retired) as an adjunct art professor at Sacramento City College. For more information, visit lobenbergart.com
 
Location: Huntsville, Alabama
Instructor: David Lobenberg
Cost: $575 Museum members/ $625 non-members
Sponsor: Huntsville Museum of Art
Website, email, 256-535-6372