Guided by artist Bree Stallings, this one-day intensive introduces participants to foundational and expressive approaches to drawing the human figure. Through a combination of color theory, anatomical study, and direct observation from a live model, students will build confidence in representing the human form with accuracy and personal style.
Saturday, July 18 Workshop Breakdown:
10:00–10:30 AM — Introductions & Warm Up Exercise
Participants introduce themselves, their skill level and goals for the day. Fun movement exercise to exit the logical brain and enter the creative brain.
10:30 - 12 Color Theory + Skin Tones
Participants explore undertones, color mixing, and techniques for building dimensional skin tones across a range of complexions. Includes demonstration and guided exercises. Begin with color wheel, primaries, secondaries, tertiaries, analogous, complements, mix to brown 4 times, hues and shades, mix 10 shades for make up, mix self-shade and document.
12:00 - 12:30 p.m. — Break & Lunch (Lunch provided by the Museum)
12:30 AM–1:00 PM — Color mix test with color chips
1:00 - 1:30 Figure Anatomy
Introduction to gesture drawing, proportion, and structural anatomy using magazines.
1:30–2:30 Figure Anatomy with Live Model
Students complete both short and sustained poses with instructor guidance.
2:30 - 3 p.m. Break
3 p.m. - 3:30 PM — Facial Anatomy + Portrait Study
Focus on facial structure, feature development, and expression.
3:30 - 4:00 Group Long Pose
Students work from a live model in a seated pose to complete a portrait study.
4:00 - 5:00 20 Stroke Portraits
Demo, cools and warms, individual tries
if time allows — Group Critique + Closing
This workshop, generously funded by a Grassroots Grant from the Gaston Arts Council through the North Carolina Arts Council, supports the Gaston County Museum’s mission to connect our community with art and local culture. For more information, please contact Alex Brooks, Community Engagement Manager, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
All skill levels are welcome—whether you’re refining your practice or returning to figure study after a break.
