Block-in Basics (Online Course)
Jon Brogie
Thursdays 5 PM – 9 PM ET – please adjust for your time zone
May 8, 15, 22, 29, June 5, 12, 19, 26, 2025
8 weeks – Tuition: $475
Limit: 10 students
Take this class:
- To begin or further your understanding of GCA’s block-in technique using the comparative method.
- To learn techniques for achieving accuracy in drawing working with a variety of simple and complex forms.
- To deepen your understanding of perspective.
- To learn how to control the relative scale of objects.
Is this class for me?
- Draftsmen of all levels are welcome, as well as painters looking to hone their drawing practice.
- Some familiarity with GCA’s methodology is helpful.
Class format notes:
- The class includes, critiques, demo with Q&A, and a work-in-class section with ongoing critiques.
- Students can choose to observe any demos live, work alongside, and/or rewatch the recording the next day.
- The class will be conducted on the Zoom platform and is a live online experience.
- This class also uses Google Classroom to distribute materials. Watch this video for more insight.
- Both of these services are free but require registration.
- It will be necessary for students to have access to a computer, tablet or smartphone. The recommended device is a laptop or desktop.
- Every online class is recorded.
- Critiques are only given during the live class time.
- Students work on their weekly assignment outside of class time.
- Attendance at every live class isn’t mandatory.
- Absentee students can still submit their work at least 15 minutes before the live class starts and the instructor will critique the work during the class. The critique will then be viewable in the recording.
- Students receive access to the class recording within 24 hours of the class finishing. The recording gets posted into the google classroom.
- Access to the recordings is available for the duration of the class plus an additional 30 days. There are no extensions.
“My basic drawing skills have improved. I also have a better and more complete method of drawing and measurement techniques that I work through while working on every drawing. The class also continues to inspire me and keep me on task and working to get better every day. I look forward to each new assignment, critique, and demo.” – Frank
Course Description
In this class artists will strengthen their drawing skills through weekly block-in study using objects conventionally depicted in still-life painting. By leveraging a variety of conceptual tools and techniques they will develop an approach to drawing that can be successfully applied to any subject matter. The class will progress from basic concepts that are fundamental to achieving accuracy in drawing, to strategies for tackling and practicing more complex forms. Students are encouraged to work with everyday objects from their collection. Draftsmen of all levels are welcome, as well as painters looking to hone their drawing practice. Artists with more experience can choose to build a still-life composition around the chosen object/theme.
Outline:
Week 1 – Introduction, The “Toolbox”
Week 2 – Hierarchy and Multiples
Week 3 – Cuboids and Perspective Basics
Week 4 – Manmade Cylinders and Ellipses
Week 5 – Light and Shadow Shapes
Week 6 – Advanced Forms and Abstraction
Week 7 – Contours
Week 8 – Solecisms in Composition