Intro to figure drawing: the art of the block-in

Mondays, 5:30-8:30 p.m. // sep 8 - oct 13 (6 weeks)

This course is a 6 week introduction to drawing the human figure from life. The Block-in is the first stage of a drawing - the initial sketch. You will learn how to quickly and effectively capture the dynamic gesture, flow, and masses of the figure.

By practicing countless starts over the 6 weeks, you will learn the shapes, proportions, and basic structures of the human form. As the weeks progress, you will be given an introduction to basic anatomical landmarks and structural ideas intended to prime you for the following class in anatomy should you choose to take it.

While intended to lead right into the next course on anatomy, this class can also be taken as a stand alone intro class for anyone new to figure drawing. Some drawing experience is helpful but not required. This is an intro course and beginners are welcome!

Figure painting: the art of the start

wednesdays 6:00 - 9:00 P.m. // sep 3 - oct 10 (6 weeks)


This class is an introduction to painting the human figure from life, starting with the art of the block-in. The Block-in is the first stage of a painting - the initial sketch. You will learn the direct painting method known as “open grisaille” to quickly and effectively capture the dynamic gesture, flow, and masses.

By practicing countless starts over the 6 weeks, you will learn the shapes, proportions, and basic structures of the human form. As the weeks progress, you will be given an introduction to a limited palette to mix the flesh tones of the figure as a preview to the concepts we will cover in the next 6 week course - full color.

Portrait Painting

wednesdays 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. // sep 3 - oct 8 (6 weeks)

This class is an in-depth introduction to painting the portrait in oils, via understanding the structures of the human head. By practicing several allá primas (meaning a painting done all in one sitting) you will become familiar with the shapes of the human head and its features. As the weeks progress, you will be given an introduction to a limited palette to mix the flesh tones of the model as a preview to the concepts we will cover in the next 6 week course - full color!

The instructor will give demonstrations explaining materials, techniques, and the anatomical forms of the human head. Some experience drawing or painting from life is encouraged but not required.

group classes

tuesdays 6-8, thursdays 3-5 // baker, denver

This class offers skills-building using Graphite Drawing concentrated on the Charles Bargue Drawing CourseCharcoal Drawing using plaster casts of classical sculpture, Oil Painting in still life as students progress in their skill and handling, and Color study as it relates to the exploration of color, exploring the relationships between Hue, Value and Chroma. 

Classes run in 4 week cycles beginning the first week of the month. This class is offered on a continual enrollment basis - we prorate students beginning in the middle of the month. Because each class is tailored to the individual, you don’t miss anything if you start late.

Private Lessons

Open availability // in-person & online

Private lessons help you to hone the skills you want to develop under the guidance of an experienced professional.

Many of my private students are former art school graduates, or find themselves returning to art after raising a family or developing a career. They may have spent a few years taking classes and workshops, but they’re eager to get serious about their craft, but aren’t necessarily looking to make art a career or willing to enter a 4 year program. With private lessons, I’m able to tailor a unique curriculum to you and your goals, while providing the focused environment that you wont find at a community art center or in group classes.