Introduction to Portraiture in Oils: summer studio course at the Essential School of Painting

I’m delighted to be teaching a bite-size weekend course at the Essential School of Painting this summer.

Join me for an engaging and accessible two-day course on Saturday 9th & Sunday 10th August at the ESOP studio in Wood Green, and learn how to capture the human face with confidence and creativity.

This course offers two days of oil painting from life, perfect for immersing yourself in figurative oil painting from observation.

This course is suitable for students of varying levels: all are welcome, from beginners to experienced painters.

Working with a model throughout, we will work on the essential draughtsmanship and technical painting skills for portraiture.

We will cover:

  • The basic proportions of the face and head

  • Transitioning from drawing to painting

  • Building volume through tonal values

  • Fundamental colour theory, including colour choices for painting "skin tones".

Join me for a rewarding weekend of developing your painting and drawing skills in a supportive and dynamic environment.

All necessary materials - including brushes, paint, paper and solvent - are included, except for canvas which you can purchase from the school.

Where: The Essential School of Painting, Collage Art Space 5, Coburg Road, Wood Green, London N22 6TZ

When: 10:30am - 4:30pm, Saturday 9th & Sunday 20th August 2025

Price: £160

About The Essential School of Painting

The Essential School of Painting (ESOP) is an alternative art school based in Wood Green, London, specialising in painting and drawing classes taught by leading contemporary artists. The ESOP offers exciting, intellectually rigorous courses with the intention of advancing painting. Classes are available for all levels of experience. Find out more and explore the full range of classes via the ESOP website.