Introduction to Portraiture in Oils: evening studio course at the Essential School of Painting
I’m delighted to be teaching a one-year ‘Introduction to Portraiture in Oils’ course at the Essential School of Painting.
Join me for an engaging and accessible course on Monday evenings at the ESOP studio in Wood Green, and learn how to capture the human face with confidence and creativity.
Working with a model throughout, this course is perfect for immersing yourself in figurative oil painting from observation. It is suitable for students of varying levels: all are welcome, from beginners to experienced painters.
We will work on the essential draughtsmanship and technical painting skills for portraiture, covering:
The 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".
This course can be booked per term, or for the entire year. As the course progresses and students develop their confidence with these fundamentals, we will explore more complex compositions and the impact of settings and props when creating a narrative in painting portraits.
Join me for a rewarding year 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:
Autumn term: 6 Oct to 15 Dec 2025, 6 – 9pm (half term 27 Oct)
Spring term: 12 Jan to 23 Mar 2026, 6 – 9pm (half term 16 Feb)
Summer term: 20 Apr to 22 Jun 2026, 6 – 9pm (half term 4 May, Bank Holiday 25 May)
Price:
Termly fee £380
Annual fee £1040
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.