This energised practical art programme is for people who want to learn more about using the figure in their art practice. The programme dynamically examines ways in which the figure can be represented, whether in its entirety or focusing on faces, hands, limbs, etc. Whether your practice focuses on portraiture, anatomy, singular figures or multiple persons in whatever compositions, media and meaning you work with, the course will question, inform, and progress your perception and output.
Led by artists Michela Carraro and Rob Unett, participants will generate a significant body of work over the year, with the aim of developing a personal visual vocabulary. The programme is experimental, using the body and figure as a site for exploring traditional and contemporary media, techniques, meaning, storytelling and more.
With additional input from national and international artists who work with the human form; participants will have the opportunity to expand their artist networks and to understand the multitude of ways artists from around the world are responding to the figure today.
Together we will look at the history of different mediums and processes, enabling participants to explore new approaches to working and to rethink their personal approach to bodies and their aesthetics.
The art school will provide a wide range of materials in the sessions to help you experiment with different approaches and processes to bring into your work.
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
- Each weekend utilises a variety of traditional and contemporary practice-based techniques relating to a set theme or approach to responding to the figure. All materials are supplied.
- Talks from professional artists including Q&A opportunities and practical guidance.
- Professional life models and set ups.
- 1-2-1 tutorials to address your professional practice and development.
- Personally tailored exercises for you to achieve between sessions.
- Peer to peer reflection.
- An end of programme presentation in an external public space.
We offer everyone interested in applying for the programme a one-to-one Zoom call with the Lead Tutor for the programme. Simply fill in our Application Form embedded below and we will contact you about arranging an informal interview. Alternatively, if you have any questions, you can get in touch via Contact Us.
We are currently organising the 2026-27 programme dates, and will be looking to launch early in 2026.
To view our other programme, please click here.
Programme thumbnail image by Rob Unett.
