Syllabus Information

5.1. Methodological overview

A main part of the subject consists of a set of activities oriented towards the study of human figure, and grounded in the production of various kinds of drawings from life. For that matter, the graphic study of movement and dynamic processes of form, gesture in graphic expression and composition, constitute the main issues.
Another part of the subject focuses on the development of personal drawing propositions by the students, in connection with different thematic axes  and in the context of contemporary drawing practice. These drawing propositions will take the form of project-like activities where research processes, personal motivation, openness to group dynamics, and interdisciplinary approaches, become more important.
In a third section, the subject is configured as a workshop about the study, elaboration, and implementation of the main drawing techniques, procedures, and materials.

5.2. Learning tasks

1. Studies of human figure in motion: practical and unhurried production of drawings from life model poses (or sketches), usually on a 100 x 70 cm paper format, using charcoal, lead pencil or crayon. Different types:
- Analytical
- Of expression
- From memory and retention.
On-site classroom training: 24 h.

2. Studies on human figure composition: practical and unhurried production of drawings from life model poses (or sketches) in specific contexts, usually on a 100 x 70 cm paper format, using charcoal, lead pencil or crayon. Different types:
- Analytical: interaction between figure, objects, and space
- Of portrait
- Landscape and urban sketching (with figure).

On-site classroom training: 24 h.

3. Sketching exercises: practical and lively execution of drawings in small format (usually any technique) from life model poses, three-dimensional models, or external references from landscape or indoor spaces.
On-site classroom training: 12 h.

4. Elaboration and implementation of drawing techniques and procedures. It should be understood like an experimental elaboration of media, materials and instruments, from the study of the main techniques and procedures. It entails collaborative work.
On-site classroom training: 10 h; student’s autonomous work: 20 h.

5. Theoretical demonstrations of the core contents. Specific sessions will be carried out (about 1 h) and also short presentations inserted in the main practical work.
On-site classroom training: 10 h.

6. Personal drawing proposition exercise. It should be understood like the development and production of a personal project through which learning outcomes will be integrated. It consists of a short set of drawings (no more than five) and focuses on the use of a particular technique or procedure. A written report will be included.
Student’s autonomous work: 40 h.

7. Artist’s book. It should be understood like the production and collection of drawings throughout the course separately from other planned activities. It provides a space for personal investigation and for the development of the various planned learning outcomes. Partly, it will be produced using materials, techniques or procedures made by the self students.
Student’s autonomous work: 60 h.

5.3. Syllabus

Core contents:

1. Motion drawing. Gesture drawing. Drawing from memory and retention. Graphic analysis of movement: analysis of sequences. Anatomical and structural factors of human motion. The gait. Synthesis and expression of dynamic forms. Drawing and narrative.
2. Drawing and composition. Formal articulation and volumetric interlinkage. Composition factors: geometric structuring, chiaroscuro, texture, depth, and colour. Study of details. Portrait drawing. Outdoors and indoor drawing and sketching.
3. Drawing media, techniques and procedures. Dry techniques and procedures. Inks. Mixed media and techniques. Composition, elaboration and implementation.
4. Free creation in drawing. Drawing and project. Interdisciplinary keys in drawing. Drawing as artistic medium and genre. Drawing in the current art scene.

5.4. Course planning and calendar

Lesson 0: Theoretical presentation (2 h). Artist’s book (presentation).
Lesson 1: Sketching (gesture drawing) 2 h + theoretical presentation 1 h
Lessons 2 a 5: Motion drawing. Analysis. 12 h
Lesson 6: Sketching (drawing from memory and retention) + theoretical presentation 1 h
Lessons 7 y 8: Motion drawing. Expression. 6 h
Lesson 9: Sketching (expression) 2 h + theoretical presentation 1 h
Lessons 10 y 11: Motion drawing. Expression. 6 h
Lesson 12: Techniques and procedures (materials) 1 h + theoretical presentation 2 h
Lesson 13: Sketching (composition) 2 h + theoretical presentation 1 h. Artist’s book (delivery).
Lessons 14 a 17: Composition 12 h
Lesson 18: Techniques and procedures (pencils, chalks, and crayons) 3 h
Lesson 19: Sketching (portrait) 2 h + theoretical presentation 1 h. Personal project (presentation).
Lessons 20 y 21: Portrait 6 h
Lesson 22: Techniques and procedures (inks) 3h
Lesson 23: Sketching (outdoors) 2 h + theoretical presentation 1 h
Lessons 24 y 25: Composition 12 h
Lesson 26: Techniques and procedures (inks) 3h. Personal project (delivery).