Figure Drawing Course in Barcelona: Classical Training Inspired by the Old Masters

The Figure Drawing Course at the Barcelona Academy of Art offers intensive training in academic figure drawing, rooted in the classical figurative tradition of the Old Masters. Working directly from a live model, students develop the skills needed to observe, analyze, and accurately represent the human figure through a structured combination of theory, demonstrations, and studio practice.

Designed for both students who want to strengthen their foundations in academic drawing and experienced artists looking to refine their technique, the course focuses on the essential principles of figure drawing, proportion, gesture, structure, anatomy, and light.

At the Barcelona Academy of Art, we consider drawing the foundation of artistic development. A strong understanding of drawing is essential for painting, sculpture, and other visual disciplines. Through a progressive and rigorous methodology, students learn to translate their observation of the live model into convincing two-dimensional representations of the human figure, developing both technical precision and a deeper understanding of form.

Course Methodology

The program combines theoretical instruction with intensive life drawing practice. Students work from a live model through a variety of exercises and longer poses, progressively developing their understanding of the figure from gesture and proportion to mass, structure, and three-dimensional form.

Pencil Drawing: Block-in, Gesture, and Proportion

Students begin with short-pose figure drawing exercises in pencil, developing the fundamental skills needed to construct the human figure:

• Block-in and construction
• Gesture and rhythm
• Proportion and measurement
• Structural accuracy

These exercises establish a strong foundation in academic figure drawing and help students develop a more analytical approach to observing the human figure.

Charcoal Drawing: Masses and Chiaroscuro

Working from a longer pose, students move into charcoal drawing to explore the relationship between light, shadow, and three-dimensional form. Particular attention is given to:

• Mass construction
• Value studies
• Academic chiaroscuro
• Volumetric analysis and three-dimensional form

Materials

Materials are not included in the course fee. A detailed materials list will be provided in your confirmation email after registration. For your convenience, we also offer a materials pack that you can order in advance, which will be prepared and waiting for you at reception on the first day of the course.

Portrait Sculpture Course in Barcelona: Classical Training Inspired by the Great Masters

Explore the art of portrait sculpture through an intensive study of the human head and figure, working directly from a live model. Rooted in the figurative tradition of the great masters, this course introduces students to the traditional process of constructing a three-dimensional portrait in clay while developing a deeper understanding of observation, proportion, gesture, and form.

Throughout the course, students learn how to translate careful observation of the model into a convincing sculptural portrait. Particular attention is given to the proportions, structure, planes, gesture, and expression of the head, helping students understand how to build a likeness while capturing the individual character and presence of the sitter.

Students explore how to establish the overall structure of the portrait before developing the volumes and finer features. The process encourages a direct and analytical approach to observation, allowing students to understand the human head not simply as a collection of features, but as a unified three-dimensional form.

Suitable for students interested in classical sculpture, portrait sculpture, and figurative art, the course combines practical studio work with the principles of traditional academic training.

Materials

Clay is included in the course fee. Students are responsible for bringing their own sculpting tools and any other necessary materials. A detailed materials list will be provided in your confirmation email after registration.

Figure Sculpture Course in Barcelona: Classical Training from a Live Model

Learn the foundations of figurative sculpture by working directly from a live model and exploring the human figure through traditional academic techniques. Rooted in the classical tradition of the great masters, this course develops the skills needed to observe, understand, and construct the human figure in three dimensions.

Working from a live nude model in contrapposto is an essential part of the course. These poses allow students to study the structure and anatomy of the human figure, as well as the subtle changes between relaxed and active muscles. Through careful observation, students learn to understand gesture, proportion, balance, and the underlying structure of the body.

After an introduction to the fundamental techniques of academic figure sculpture, students will begin modelling a figure at approximately half life-size using clay. The figure is constructed progressively, building up the forms.

Students first focus on the overall impression of the pose, establishing accurate proportions, gesture, and balance before developing the volumes and smaller details. Particular attention is given to understanding the relationship between the main masses of the body, beginning with the fundamental relationship between the pelvis (box) and rib cage (egg), before progressing to the rest of the figure.

This structured approach provides students with a solid foundation in clay figure sculpture, while developing both practical hand-building skills and the ability to analyse the human figure through direct observation.

Materials

Clay is included in the course fee. Students are responsible for bringing their own sculpting tools and any other necessary materials. A detailed materials list will be provided in your confirmation email after registration.

1-Week Oil Portrait Painting Course in Barcelona: Inspired by the Figurative Tradition of the Great Masters

Immerse yourself in the traditional practice of oil portrait painting during this intensive one-week course in Barcelona. Working from a live model, you will explore the fundamental principles and techniques of portraiture through a combination of practical studio work, demonstrations, and essential theory inspired by the methods of the great masters of the figurative tradition.

Throughout the course, you will learn how to observe and construct a portrait, focusing on proportion, likeness, gesture, structure, light, colour, and the planes of the human face. Guided exercises and demonstrations will help you understand how to build the portrait step by step, from the initial drawing and structure through to the development of form, colour, and finish.

Painting directly from a live model provides an immersive opportunity to develop your observation skills and gain a deeper understanding of the human figure and portrait painting. Whether you are looking to strengthen your existing skills or deepen your knowledge of traditional oil painting techniques, this intensive course offers a focused experience within a traditional atelier environment.

Please note: Materials are not included in the course fee. A detailed materials list will be provided in your confirmation email. For your convenience, we also offer a materials pack that you can order in advance. Your pack will be prepared and waiting for you at reception on the first day of the course.