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Perspective

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Intuitive Drawing (In-Person)
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Intuitive Drawing (In-Person)

$195

with Tony Rosati

Saturdays, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Ideal for people with little or no formal training, this course presents foundational techniques and an overview of subject matter through concise and straightforward instruction. Working chiefly in pencil from simple objects and portrait models, learn concepts and methods to use line, shape, light and shadow, and value to draw what you see effectively, accurately, and expressively. This is a great starter course for further course study or personal practice.

Image: G. Daniel Massad, Study for "From Toshiko's Garden", 1987, Graphite on paper, 23 x 26 9/16 in. Courtesy of the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Philadelphia, Gift of the artist in honor of Toshiko Takaezu, 2008.18

Register by: May 26

Materials List

CE Policy Guide Summer 2023

Drawing the Urban Environment (Outdoor)

$295

with Frederic Kaplan

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 6, 2023 at 10 am, runs for 6 weeks

Thursdays, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Draw Philadelphia’s picturesque historic and commercial architecture, using fundamental observational drawing techniques to capture the world around you. Learn simple methods for applying the principles of linear and atmospheric perspective to your drawings, giving them dimension and depth. Students at all experience levels are welcome, with instruction designed to appeal both to those who enjoy portraying landscape subjects in the open air and to students seeking to hone their basic drawing skills. This course takes place in easy-to-access Central Philadelphia and University City locations. Restrooms are available near all sites. Note: Students are responsible for their own transportation to drawing locations.

Image: Maureen Mastroieni, Federal Court.

Register by: June 23

Materials List

CE Policy Guide Summer 2023

Composition in Drawing and Painting: Strategies for Building a Strong Design (Online)

$295

with Al Gury

Calendar Next session starts Jul 9, 2023 at 4:30 pm, runs for 6 weeks

Sundays, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m.

An in-depth approach to understanding and using composition by Al Gury, Professor of Painting and Drawing at PAFA, and noted author of Alla Prima, Color for Painters, and Foundations of Drawing. This class presents practical skills and strategies for making strong compositions. Composition, the arrangement of images, shapes, forms, colors, values to form visual balance and strength within the pictorial frame of an artwork, will be explored through projects using still life, interiors, portraits, and landscapes. Each class will contain explanations of the visual compositional strategies in both historic and contemporary art, and extensive tactics for problem-solving and solutions, as well as a weekly assignment and critique of personal work. Class meetings will be held on Zoom, and Canvas will be used for assignments and class content. All media and levels of experience are welcome. 

Optional: This is a Condensed Course, available for 1.0 undergraduate credit for $595. Select credit option when registering.

Image: Al Gury, Still Life with Landscape, 2022, 16 x 12 in.

Register by: June 23

Materials List

CE Policy Guide Summer 2023

Zoom Technical Requirements

Full Course

Perspective Drawing (Online)

$250

with Charles Muldowney

Calendar Next available session starts Jul 11, 2023 at 10 am, runs for 6 weeks

Tuesdays, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Linear perspective is a powerful tool to aid the artist in representing three-dimensional reality on a two-dimensional surface. Study the basic principles of perspective to draw buildings, objects, figures, and interior spaces convincingly from reality or imagination. Presentations and skills-focused exercises will guide students through the basics of one-, two-, and three-point perspective, including measuring and drawing ellipses, arches, and interior features. Learn the history and use of perspective through the centuries.

Learning Objectives

  • Students will learn to use the techniques for creating a perspective drawing.
  • Students will better understand and appreciate the use of perspective in the art of the masters.
  • Students will learn the history of the discovery and development of perspective.
  • Students gain the confidence to expand their own artistic expression.

Image: Charles Muldowney, Sweet Potatoes, 2008, oil on panel, 6 x 13 in.

Register by: June 23

Materials List

CE Policy Guide Summer 2023

Zoom Technical Requirements





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