Introduction to the Atelier Method

Designed as a taster, this speeded up amuse-bouche introduces you to the highly-structured and systematic methods used in the Atelier way of working, which was developed in the seventeenth century. This is an extremely effective way of quickening the process of learning and getting results. Tasks are assigned like building blocks and each task mastered before moving on to the next. Jack Ford is also a visiting tutor at the Charles H Cecil Studios in Florence. His huge experience and knowledge are delivered in a wonderfully supportive and charismatic way.

Workshop Structure / 3 Days

Half-day of figure drawing, on each day (morning or afternoon) with one pose for the entire 3 days to introduce students to the more rigorous nature of the process.

Friday 1/2 day Cast Drawing
This is not only a key aspect of "classical training" but also a good gauge to see where art students are and introduce them to the systematic approach to structuring the progression of the drawing and subsequently painting.

Saturday 1/2 day Self-portrait Layin (charcoal or pencil)
Using the same steps as introduced in the cast drawing and figure. Art students will map out a self-portrait, mirroring the progression of cast to portrait without the need for extra models.

Sunday 1/2 day
Self-portrait painting

Workshops explained: The Sequential Development of Creativity
Art development applies the same school philosophy of committing to developing the individual’s abilities through specialist tutoring and applying a process of learning using the building blocks of art making. Adult students bring with them a developed personality, personal knowledge, experience and defined opinions that demands individual attention. The sequential development of creativity empowers the student to progress at their own pace through the art leaning journey and progress is often mapped through a sketch book-based annotation approach.