Drawing Classes in Chicago, IL

Our introductory course is designed for absolute beginners. In this course students will acquire an understanding of basic concepts and begin to develop their drawing skills. We shall start at the rudimentary level by understanding the potential of the materials we’ll use, namely pencil and charcoal. We shall further study elements and principles...

This course is designed to introduce students to the illustration process, from ideation and freehand sketching to the development of a finished product. Students are encouraged to experiment with a variety of materials and styles, from traditional to digital and including their hybrid. Classes are supplemented with a series of presentations on...

Turn your stick figures & doodles into artwork. It's not hard & in this class you'll get plenty of attention & encouragement. We'll introduce you to basic drawing by studying a variety of objects, styles & techniques. The skill you develop in this class will increase your ability to draw quickly, accurately & to your satisfaction....

Students will focus on the proportional relationships of the human head and face to achieve naturalistic resemblance in their drawings. Instruction in the use of line, shape, light, and shadow will be explored to achieve believable volumetric form. Black and white as well as color materials will be investigated. A model will be present during each...

This course is designed to introduce students to the illustration process, from ideation and freehand sketching to the final piece. Students are encouraged to experiment with a variety of materials and styles, from traditional to digital and their hybrid. Classes are supplemented with a series of presentations on contemporary illustrators and a discussion...

This class is designed for students with prior drawing experience interested in investigating new subjects and themes while developing technical and conceptual skills through experimentation with a variety of methods and materials. Creative exploration will include exercises addressing scale, mixed-media processes, drawing formats, and series. Individual...

Expand your enjoyment of pen and ink by incorporating colored ink, applied as a wash or using the stippling technique. You will build on your own light graphite drawing with crow quill or brush work. Explore different effects with emphasis on control and richness.  A supply list will be sent. Prerequisite: Pen and Ink 1. 

Carbon dust is a beautiful, versatile, and little-known medium that lends itself to both broad, painterly expression and to extremely fine detail. It is appropriate to all botanical subjects as well as to landscapes and still lifes. Working on various paper with a variety of black pigments (applied with both brushes and pencils, we will focus on botanicals...

Capture the hidden side of trees in this special intermediate/advanced art workshop. Roots allow trees to take in water and nutrients and even communicate with nearby trees. Observe the intricate structures that support life above ground, and work with an experienced art instructor to create a still life in colored pencil, graphite, or another medium...

Students will create dynamic, multi-layered compositions with a variety of materials: watercolor/acylic/water soluable oil paint, ink, images, found objects, and pastels. Techniques explored will include photo transferring, collage, monotype printing, drawing, painting, and assemblage. Emphasis is on conceptual practice and personal process.

Learn the basics of drawing nature in this course designed for true beginners. We will discuss everything from how to hold your pencil to what kind of paper to use. You will have time to work on drawing skills in a no-pressure setting. A great confidence builder. Bring a pencil with an eraser and a folder to hold papers. All other supplies will be...

This course explores how the personal nature of an artist's sketchbook can assist in the development of new directions and reveal meaningful ideas to pursue. Students develop sketches, collages, paintings, and notes to be used to create works on larger sheets of paper. Students review the history of artist's sketchbooks and visit the Art Institute...

Tap into your creative side with an introductory workshop on nature art. No experience necessary! Enjoy light refreshments as you learn the basics under the encouraging guidance of your instructor. A fun and popular program with something new each season. Spring Flowers in Colored Pencil (April 6 or 7) Capture the curves and color of a cheerful spring...

Develop Seeing as a practice of mindfulness through drawing and painting, based on the work of Ellen J. Langer,  “All it takes to become an artist is to start doing art.” –from On Becoming an Artist

Practice drawing and color techniques as a form of meditation. Slow down the art-making process, creating a peaceful and healing experience. Use intuition to connect to natural, creative forces. Through this meditative practice, enjoy calming, observational drawing of plants. Explore using tone and color to create a serene mood with colored pencils...