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Observation and Perception: Unlocking the Skill of Drawing - In Person

Studio Arts Course
266288
Observation and Perception: Unlocking the Skill of Drawing - In Person
0.00
This program will be available for sale to the general public starting on February 7, 2026.
Want to register before then? Become a member today, or if you are already a member, log in to register for this program.

Observation and Perception: Unlocking the Skill of Drawing - In Person

7 Session Weekend Studio Arts Course

7 sessions from April 4 to May 16, 2026
Upcoming Session:
Saturday, April 4, 2026 - 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. ET
#1
April 4, 2026 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. ET
#2
April 11, 2026 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. ET
#3
April 18, 2026 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. ET
#4
April 25, 2026 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. ET
#5
May 2, 2026 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. ET
#6
May 9, 2026 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. ET
#7
May 16, 2026 10:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. ET
Code: 1E0AKL
Location:
S. Dillon Ripley Center
1100 Jefferson Dr SW
Metro: Smithsonian (Mall exit)
Select your Registration
$255
Member
$290
Gen. Admission
Materials for this program

Break free of your usual way of seeing as you build mental pathways and learn the physical mechanics of seeing differently. You don’t need any special talent to learn how to draw. What you need is willingness, patience, and attention to what happens inside of your mind.

This course is based on contemporary research about visual perception and its application to the practice of drawing. Through a series of exercises, study major elements that are the foundation of visual language including the concepts of line, shape, light and shadow, and composition. Explore the significance of the relationships among these elements, train your hand-eye coordination, and practice basic pencil skills to successfully translate your observations to paper. 

This approach not only sets you on a path to discovering the magic of drawing, but also allows you to begin seeing the everyday world in a totally different light and learn.

Special Program Information

  • The instructor is Shahin Talishkhan.
  • This program includes 7 sessions, 3 hours each.
  • NOTE: Registration will close for this program at 3 p.m. ET on Friday, April 3, 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.
  • Please note our Health and Safety guidance for this in-person program.
  • View Common FAQs about our Studio Arts programs.