Course Description

Students will render simple everyday objects in graphite to build practical experience in the GCA methodology of working from life. Emphasis will be placed on accuracy of block-in and form modeling value. Students will first be guided on how to select and compose appropriate objects and effectively light them. Next, students will practice the methods of blocking-in to construct a two-dimensional framework for rendering. These methods will develop their comparative measuring and shape-seeing abilities. Once the block-in is finished, the pitfalls of purely visual observation are analyzed and the three-dimensional conceptual principles of modeling light on form are introduced. Students will develop a strategic and clear approach to modeling form as they learn patience, focus, accuracy, and observational detail. 

The instructor will critique and demo each week. Because artists are being advised and encouraged to make their set ups appropriate for their skill level, this class is great for both beginners and more advanced GCA studies and can be taken repeatedly. Students can expect to walk away with a firm grasp of a systematic approach to create highly studied drawings. 

Prior to class students should collect still life objects. It is highly recommended that all students refrain from selecting objects that are see-through or reflective such as shiny metals, glass, and mirrors. Students can also choose between working on two projects for four weeks each or one project for the full eight weeks.

Beginners: Pick one simple object that is white with a matte finish. Note: Any object can be spray painted matte white. Go outdoors to find your inspiration and then choose interesting objects that you don’t mind spray painting. For example: eggs, plastic fruit, leaves, rocks, etc

More advanced students (who have previously taken a GCA rendering course) can choose 1-3 objects that are matte white, values of gray, black, or even multiple colors depending on what you are looking to practice and achieve. 

Week 1:  Critique proposed set-ups. Set up and block-in demo.
Week 2: Critique on block-in. Demo on finishing block-in and flattening shadows.
Week 3:  Critique on flattening shadows. Demo on modeling form.
Week 4: Critique on beginning stages of modeling form.  Demo on modeling. Students work during class alongside instructor.
Weeks 5 & 6: Critiques and demos on modeling form continue.
Week 7: Critique on form modeling. Demo working on shadows.
Week 8: Final critique on form modeling. Final Q&A.

Students are encouraged to work alongside the instructor during class and also commit additional hours working outside of class each week. Everyone has different demands on their time outside of class but the more rendering practice you can schedule in, the larger the rewards.