Wed 22 Apr- 24 Jun (8 wks) | 11.15am-1.45pm | 16+ yrs
Open for sign-ups throughout the term. If the start date has passed, bookings may still be available. Please contact the box office at 01539 725133. Join our mailing list for updates on future courses.
Designed for those with some prior drawing experience, this course develops your portrait skills through a series of drawn and painted studies. Explore varied approaches, refine composition, and push beyond your current level, working from a live portrait model each week.
What will the course cover and how will it be taught?
This course centres on working from a live sitter, guiding you through a series of focused portrait tasks that develop your observational skills and confidence in using your chosen materials. You’ll strengthen your ability to capture likeness, deepen your understanding of what makes a compelling portrait, and explore a range of techniques and processes. Throughout the course, you’ll be encouraged to personalise your approach as you work towards a resolved, longer portrait composition.
Teaching includes tutor demonstrations, practical exercises, group discussion, and study of both historical and contemporary portraits. Individual feedback, peer learning, and dedicated one-to-one support will help you progress and achieve your full potential.
Who is it suitable for?
Suitable for complete beginners as well as those with experience as Catherine can tailor the session to meet individual needs.
Important Information
This course will be held in Studio 3. There are no sessions during half term 25-29 May, or during 1-7 June.
What do I need to bring?
Drawing boards and easels will be provided.
We will be drawing in the first session, so can you please bring:
- A3 sketchbook.
- Willow charcoal.
- Putty rubber.
- Tape or clips to attach paper to a drawing board.
You will be asked to bring other art materials along as and when necessary.
When using art materials, your clothes could potentially get dirty, so you may wish to dress accordingly.
Are there any additional costs?
No
About the tutor
Catherine MacDiarmid brings over 30 years of teaching experience to her role, combining extensive classroom practice with the insight of a dedicated, practising artist. She has exhibited widely, including the BP Portrait Award (2001/02), the New Light Art (2021/22 and 2023/24), and regularly at the Mall Galleries. Her work has received numerous accolades, most recently the Watercolour Materials Award at the Jackson’s Painting Prize in 2023 and the People and Faces Award 2025 at the Lake Artists Society. She is an elected member of the Lakes Artists Society and the Contemporary British Portrait Painters. Catherine has also appeared on Portrait Artist of the Year (2014 and 2018), reaching the semi-finals in 2019. Alongside private portrait commissions, her work is collected internationally, and she is based in her home studio in Kendal.
See all Creative Learning courses here.
PLEASE BOOK YOUR TICKETS IN ADVANCE OF YOUR VISIT
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A commission of £2.50 - £3.50 is included in the ticket price, to support our administration costs and the maintenance and development of our historic venue, helping ensure we are here for future generations. Creative learning classes & workshops are exempt.
For information about accessibility please visit our dedicated accessibility page.
For further information about tickets and terms and conditions please visit our ticket information pages.
Some live events may carry strict age restrictions, these are outlined on our website. Under 16’s must be accompanied by an adult at all times during evening events.
Please note: Our Bar & Restaurant is closed on Sundays
