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Introduction to Figure Drawing - In Person

Studio Arts Course
266997
Introduction to Figure Drawing - In Person
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Introduction to Figure Drawing - In Person

5 Session Weekend Studio Arts Course

5 sessions from July 12 to August 9, 2026
#1
July 12, 2026 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET
#2
July 19, 2026 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET
#3
July 26, 2026 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET
#4
August 2, 2026 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET
#5
August 9, 2026 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. ET
Code: 1E0ANB
Location:
S. Dillon Ripley Center
1100 Jefferson Dr SW
Metro: Smithsonian (Mall exit)
Registration Options
$210
Member
$245
Gen. Admission
Materials for this program

This five-session course is an introduction to live figure drawing. Working with charcoal and graphite on paper, students become familiar with classical formats for figure drawing sessions. Through practice, demonstrations, and group discussions, students learn and gain confidence drawing human models.

The first half of the course focuses on capturing gestures, analyzing proportions, and studying human anatomic form. Students learn to draw the body as a whole as well as in-depth studies of more challenging areas of interest. In the latter half, students practice more finished rendering with longer poses. Students learn how to break down planes of light from shadows while playing with perspective, composition, and line work. 

In the final sessions, students experiment with stylized representation of the human form using the foundational skills they’ve acquired. Working with mid-tone colored paper and white charcoal and graphite, students learn how to create dramatic light in their compositions.

Students ultimately cultivate an individualized style for drawing the human figure from life and become comfortable with attending open figure-drawing sessions independently.

The instructor provides individual guidance and demonstrations and leads constructive group feedback critiques at the end of each session.

Special Program Information

  • The instructor is Tom Kim.
  • This program includes 5 sessions, 3 hours each.
  • NOTE: Registration will close for this program at 3 p.m. ET on Friday, July 10, 2026.

General Information

  • This studio arts program is in person and will not be recorded.
  • Please refer to the "Materials for this program" section for any applicable supply list information and/or special documents for this program.
  • View Common FAQs about our Studio Arts programs.