Fluid Forms: Drawing the Clothed Figure

The course is suitable for all skill levels, from beginners wishing to brush up on the fundamentals of figure drawing to experienced creatives who wish to expand their practice. It will appeal to those interested in a wide range of applications from fashion illustration, through painting and portraiture, to the body driven genres of costume, theatre and performance. 

During the course, we will draw on our relationship with materials and materiality– which spans several millennia. From the figure in the landscape in painting to the dynamism of the contemporary fashion drawing and reference points as far wide as Gainsborough’s portrait Mr and Mrs Andrews, to Martha Graham’s use of the textile in Contemporary Dance, this course will explore the currency of pose, position and the narrative of the clothed figure.   

Working with a clothed life figure each day, Kate will revisit the basics of drawing the human form and explore how textiles and garments drape and fold over the body. You will be introduced to a variety of techniques to document colour and pattern, and will improve your skills in drawing gestural, performative poses with tips to capture energy and movement. 

The course will provide a balance between observation and creative expression, developing your skill and interpretation through the dynamic and experimental. You will be supported and encouraged through a playful use of new drawing processes and techniques. 

The course includes all drawing materials required: professional-quality drawing charcoal, pencils, pens and inks. You will take your portfolio of work away with you at the end of the course.   

The course will be run by Kate Broad, who is an Associate Lecturer in Drawing at our Fashion and Textiles Institute embedding drawing practice and materials knowledge into our Fashion and Textiles degree subjects. Kate is also an independent educator and facilitator in drawing practice, running life drawing courses and immersive arts projects for all levels. Kate is a recent Arts Council DYCP funding recipient for drawing research, a recent Artist in Residence at Karst studios Plymouth, and an upcoming Artist in Residence at Tehidy Park and Estate in conjunction with Krowji and Cornwall County Council and Arts Council England. 

This is an outline of what to expect and is subject to change. Each day will include time to socialise and reflect with your fellow students.  

Day 1 

The course starts at 9.30 each day with tea coffee and arrivals; following which on day 1 we will revisit the basics of drawing the human form, gestural drawing, and understanding the body underneath the textile. Kate will lead a series of warm up studies, looking at how textiles and garments behave on the body and recording drapes and folds over the body. 

Day 2 

Today will be all about colour and pattern. Kate will introduce you to a variety of techniques that can be used to document these elements, encouraging boldness in mark making and use of colour and texture in your drawing. We will also look at ways to improve your skills in drawing gestural, performative poses with tips for capturing energy and movement. 

Day 3  

A final pose by our model bringing together all the elements covered over the course. Supported by Kate but working more independently than in previous days, you can enjoy this last chance to record the figure adorned with pattern, texture and surface.

After resolving your work, in the late afternoon the course will conclude with a mini exhibition of your work with other course participants and a chance to celebrate your achievements.