This course is an ideal starting point for beginners new to drawing or an opportunity to develop for those more experienced as both group and individual guidance is provided. First lesson begins with loosening up exercises, encouraging a relaxed, inquisitive and experimental approach. Attention will be given to developing the ability to 'see' the subject and represent it. Some attention will be given to line, shape, space, tone, colour and media with an opportunity to identify and develop your own individual drawing style. (Practical Art,Painting)
Drawing from Nature
Course Description
This course offers a gentle and practical introduction to fundamental drawing skills, perfect for both complete beginners and those looking to refresh or develop their practice.
Using natural subjects such as flowers, leaves, fruits, and vegetables, students will start with large, simple representations and gradually refine their work through observation and experimentation.
The course encourages a relaxed, curious approach, with a focus on learning to see more clearly and represent subjects with increasing accuracy.
Students will explore a variety of styles and media, beginning with loosening-up and preliminary sketches before moving on to develop final pieces in the medium and style of their choice.
Group and individual guidance will support personal growth, helping each student discover their own preferences and artistic voice.
By the end of the course, participants will have a stronger grasp of key drawing principles – including line, shape, tone, space, and colour – and feel more confident in continuing their creative journey independently.
Course Structure
The course will be delivered through demonstrations, practical application and opportunities for review, with a mix of group instruction and individual attention.
Topics covered will include:
- Introduction of the Tutor
- Addressing old attitudes
- Laying a foundation of attitudes for success and enjoyment
- Large simple drawings
- Trying new media
- Identification of style
- Longer, more sophisticated drawings using media chosen by the student
Course Learning Outcomes
Students who complete this course will develop:
- A series of works using differing media
- An understanding of the process and possibilities of 'learning to draw'
- Exposure to a variety of media
- Increased capacity to 'see' a subject
- Improved skills of representation
- The ability to critique and therefore also improve
- An increased sense of fun and relaxation regarding the process of drawing
- A more open attitude to appreciation of differing styles of representation.
Course Requirements
Students will be required to bring:
- Jazz Art Jumbo Colouring Pencils (or equivalent, soft)
- Set of mixed range graphite pencils
- Set oil pastels
- Eraser
- 6 sheets A2 drawing cartridge paper
- 8 sheets imperial size newsprint
Your Tutor is Alexandra Burford
Alexandra commenced with the WEA in 2025.
She has studied a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Art and her experience in the Visual Arts is predominantly in Fine Art, with some in Graphic Design and Photography.
Her employment history includes a wide variety of roles including teaching, lecturing, coordinating and project work.
In more recent years she has been facilitating drawing lessons in both Adelaide and country South Australia.
She enjoys helping people learn the skills of drawing and developing their ability to 'see' as a tool for visual representation and her awareness of principles of design provide an added dimension to the guidance she provides in classes.
Alex gives attention to developing fundamental skills as well as helping people experiment, exploring and developing their own personal style.
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