Drawing the contemporary portrait with a live model in our neukölln studio

Comprises of 1 full day in the studio

All materials included: working in pastel, charcoal pencils, papers, inks , chalks and other dry mediums and standard studio equipment.

Location: Burnt Sienna   Donaustr. 16 12043    TRANSPORT: 4 minutes walk from U Bahn rathaus neukölln

 Date: Saturday 24th August 11 - 5 pm. Max class size: 6   

What is drawing the contemporary portrait ?

This is a unique opportunity to work alongside one of our brilliant artists tutors the studio in an intimate group of five others. With tips and techniques for creating an interesting portrait, this portrait class will present you with the fundamentals of representational portrait drawing focusing on tonal values, composition, form, and mark-making. The aim is to grow in confidence when approaching the figure, understand the foundational skills of drawing the whole figure before focussing more on the human head in sustained poses, however, this may be adapted according to each individual’s interest.

Starting with a series of fast paced drawing exercises to warm up and ‘get your eye in’ and get to know the model, before making a series of more sustained studies. Hannah will work alongside you, guiding you through unique tips and techniques to achieve good likeness and proportion as you go along, sharing with students the process by which she draws and offer some short demonstrations at different stages to illustrate what she is teaching to the group. 

You will use a range of approaches including simple measurement, identifying shapes and shadows by applying tonal values, drawing with and without line - using tonal build up to create volume and presence, as well as learning techniques to approach composition and build narratives into your work.

This course aims to foster self-confidence and enjoyment of drawing and painting in a stimulating environment. It is an ideal course for beginners and those looking to learn new approaches as there is plenty of guidance from the tutor.

The course concentrates on building observational drawing skills focussing on each of the formal elements: Line, tone, shape, texture, pattern and space, through fast paced and sustained drawing exercises and there will be opportunities for experimentation with coloured wet and dry materials according to each individual’s needs.

The class includes a live model throughout, demos as well and one on one guidance to discuss the work created. Basic materials will be provided, though if you wish to experiment with other materials or surfaces please don’t hesitate to bring them.

Where ?

Taught in our beautiful Neukölln attic studio in the heart of the Neukölln art district far from the bustle of the street. Some people describe the space as a hidden  500 year old Florentine  workshop. The space is roughly 100 years old perfect for a quiet creative moment

Testimonial from Rachel Foreman 2021 -

‘I’m so glad to have found this beauty of an art school. So far I’ve attended the winter oil course and the portrait in oil workshop and I can’t wait to do more. Louise (and Jesse) have been excellent teachers, enabling and inspiring me to explore painting- something I’ve had on my list for a very long time. Thank you Burnt Sienna!”

 Burnt Sienna Philosophy

 ​Burnt Sienna art school Berlin offers two core courses in drawing and painting, these courses take place once every season. The programme has been developed by artist Louise Lenz over the last 10 years and she is an associate  tutor at the Newlyn School of Art. The traditional teaching techniques and methods Louise brings from this highly respected art school in Cornwall are brought to Berlin and work alongside contemporary methods. Louise is the mentee of artist Jesse Leroy Smith who comes from the ROyal Academy schools.  Unlike other independent art schools in Berlin, Burnt Sienna Art School Berlin  limits class sizes in order to ensure the highest level of artistic development and flexibility towards methods of teaching. After every course students are awarded with a certificate on completion. 

Entry requirements/ level

Basic English is a course requirement, however, fluent French is spoken and a little German is understood as well though looking to improve.

Most courses are intermediate level unless otherwise stated and you would require some previous experience in painting. For painting courses you will be using turpentine, if you are allergic to this please contact us about your concerns, gloves are provided. The studio is in the Attic on the 6th floor it is a beautiful quiet space but on the top floor with no elevator so take your time! 

Materials and Equipment 

All materials and equipment are provided.

Please wear clothes you don't mind getting dirty. Biscuits and hot drinks provided please feel free to bring any special foods and drinks you might need during the day. There are haus shoes provided you must not wear outdoor shoes in the stud

2021 © All images and text Copyright Louise Lenz and Burnt Sienna Art School Berlin

Host or Publisher Burnt Sienna Art School Berlin