Rendering the Portrait (Online Course)

Instructor(s):
Jon Brogie

Thursdays – 5 PM – 9 PM ET please adjust for your time zone
February 20, 27, March 6, 13, 20, 27, April 3, 10, 2025
8 weeks – Tuition: $475

Limit: 10 students

Take this class:

• to begin or further your understanding of the techniques unique to rendering in graphite. 
• to mimic some of the step by step and form by form tactics used in GCA rendering. 
• to spend some quality time studying the classical portrait.

Is this class for me?

• Students need to have block-inexperience using GCA’s methodology.

Class format:

• The class includes, critiques, demo with Q&A, and a work-in-class section with ongoing critiques.
• It is highly recommended & preferred that students attend live to gain the benefit of the dialogue with the instructor about their work.
• Students can choose to observe live, work alongside, and/or rewatch the recording the next day.
• Students are encouraged to spend a minimum of 4 hours outside of class developing their drawings for individual critiques.

Online tech needs:

• The class will be conducted on the Zoom platform and is a live online experience.
• Each class is recorded and made available so students can review demos and critiques after each live session for the entirety of the class.
• This class also uses Google Classroom to distribute materials. Watch this video for more insight.
• Both of these services are free but require registration.
• It will be necessary for students to have access to a computer, tablet or smartphone. The recommended device is a laptop or desktop.

“In this class, I learned a better theory for chiaroscuro (handling of the midtones) and how to establish the transition between light and shadow. Technically speaking I think this rendering class gave me a better understanding about how any object is related to the light source. I really learned a lot from Jon and it was a really good and helpful experience for me.” – Guanghui

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Course Description

Building upon the skills taught in the Portrait Block-in class, students will be guided to analyze, understand, and achieve a sense of form through studying master portrait drawings. During the eight weeks, we will dissect three master drawings moving from their block-in to their conceptualized rendered scheme, defining what is shadow, what is light, and how volumes can be perceived through a concept of value management. Classes will feature demos and critiques. Students will be encouraged to work on drawings alongside the instructor and continue to render the drawings outside of class. It is highly recommended & preferred that students attend live to gain the benefit of the dialogue with the instructor about their work.