Join us for this two hour online figure class inspired by the work of artist Seurat best known for his painting Bathers at Asnières in The National Gallery. Broadcast from our studio in St Ives with a clothed model. Join in at home with guided exercises and watch live or later.

In this session we are inspired by Seurat’s less well known but exquisite drawings, many of which were done as a means to understanding the effect of light for his paintings. In particular we will look at creating poses and lighting inspired by the figures in the painting The Bathers as well as the studies for it. We will start with a couple of shorter poses followed by a longer pose.

Alice introduces you to the concept of simultaneous contrast which explores how to create the effect of light in drawing. Something that Seurat mastered. A confidence in this technique is ideal if you like drawing in a tonal way as if the pencil is a paintbrush. These sessions are designed to inspire, instruct and surprise. Suitable for any level of experience. Each one will be run slightly differently depending on the artist leading it.

You will see both the model and Alice as she works along with you. You won’t be seen or heard in the session but you can ask questions using the chat function. Share your work live with others on social media using the #SaturdayLifeLive and #schoolofpainting

What to Bring

To join in the live session you will need 5 sheets of A3 sheets of heavy ‘NOT’ watercolour paper. In other words rough textured watercolour paper. These can be cut down to smaller pieces in the session. We will start with A4 size. A solid graphite pencil a 4b and a 6b is ideal. Failing that a 4b and a 6b pencil but this won’t be quite as nice to use. A putty rubber is essential.

You will need access to the internet and ideally a Smart TV, PC or laptop or a tablet with audio. Phones are less suitable due to the small screen size but certainly possible.

Timings and Breaks

We will start at 10.30 am and work for 2 hours. We will pause for questions at different points during the session you can pose any questions to the artist using the chat function.