Workshop | Observational Drawing with Catherine O'Donnell
Learn to draw what you see in this observational drawing workshop, where you'll explore the power of tonal drawing using a still life as your subject. You will be guided through classical drawing techniques, such as perspective, proportion, negative space, and composition, helping you build confidence as you create detailed pencil or charcoal drawings.
Beginning with observational exercises, you’ll gain the skills to confidently translate a three-dimensional scene into a convincing two-dimensional drawing, capturing light and dark tones and organizing tonal values to accurately express what you see. You'll gain proficiency in using charcoal to depict the relationships between light, shadow, and form, creating depth and volume in your work.
Through a series of studies, you’ll experiment with charcoal to build dynamic compositions, progressing from smaller exercises to larger, more sustained drawings. By the end of the workshop, you'll have developed the skills to confidently translate a three-dimensional subject into a convincing two-dimensional representation.
What to expect
The class structure will guide participants do draw what they see by using key observational drawing skills—such as proportion, perspective, line, tone, and composition—to create dynamic and engaging compositions.
Some things you can expect to cover in this drawing workshop are:
- Traditional drawing techniques
- Understanding of light and shadow
- Variety in mark-making
- Composition
What will you achieve
Students will gain an understanding and practical skills required to confidently translate a three-dimensional subject into a convincing two-dimensional drawing. Students will do some studies on cartridge paper, and then work on a sustained drawing on your 300gsm paper.
Materials List
- A range of pencils, hb, 2b, 4b
- Compressed charcoal (soft, not Mont Marte brand)
- Willow charcoal (not Mont Marte brand)
- Kneadable eraser
- Plastic eraser
- Craft knife
- Masking tape
- A2 cartridge paper for preliminary studies.
- 1 sheet of 300gm hot pressed paper Stonehenge or equivalent for final drawing (optional)
Square Image: Catherine O'Donnell Preservation 2008
Main Image: Catherine O'Donnell - Preservation 2008 (large work), May God Protect You (insert image) 2009
About studio classes
Our class sizes are small, ensuring you receive the individual tuition you need. We have a maximum of 12 students per class.
Unless otherwise noted, prices *exclude* art materials. Click here to see a list of local art supply retailers.
To learn about our studios, amenites and how to get there, click here.
More Information
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<p>Learn to draw what you see in this observational drawing workshop, where you'll explore the power of tonal drawing using a still life
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Site Directions
Art Est Art School is located at 10 Hill Street Leichhardt, on the corner of Hill Street and John Street on the Annandale side of Leichhardt in Sydney's inner west.
Parking
There is no on-site parking. Please allow time to find parking in the surrounding streets which is free and untimed. Please respect our neighbours and do not park outside our premises as this section of Hill Street is a narrow, dead-end street with resident and commercial business parking only. Thank you.
Public Transport
If taking Public Transport, take the 470 Bus to Moore Street Leichhardt and alight at John Street.
If travelling by train, it is a good 20 minute walk from Stanmore Station via Young Street.
The closest Light Rail stop is Lilyfield. Cross the City West Link and walk along Catherine Street and turn left at Hill Street. Allow 15-20 minutes walk time depending on your pace.
Sessions
| When | Time | Where | Session Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sat 4 Jan 2025 | 10am - 4pm (UTC+11:00) | Studio 3 - Art Est | 10 Hill Street | Leichhardt NSW 2040 |