Drawing with Sensitivity - 6 Week Drawing Course

Thursdays | 10:00 am - 1:00 pm

5 November - 10 December 2026

Unlike many of my other expressive drawing classes, this course is all about slowing down.

Rather than working with big gestures and loose marks, we'll take our time and learn how to handle a pencil and fountain pen with care, intention and sensitivity. We'll focus on observation, learning to see what is in front of us and translate it onto paper with confidence.

Drawing on a smaller scale invites an intimate way of seeing. As our drawings become smaller we begin to notice subtle shifts in shape, tone and line that might otherwise go unseen. Through careful observation and sensitive mark-making, we'll discover that even the simplest drawing can hold depth, presence and quiet expression.

You'll also learn how to handle a pencil with the confidence of a skilled draughtsperson. We'll explore how to vary pressure, make purposeful marks, use the whole pencil, and allow your hand to move with ease rather than tension. These small refinements can transform the way you draw.

This course is designed for people who enjoy working on a smaller scale and appreciate the quieter side of drawing. Together we'll explore how simple materials can produce rich and expressive drawings when used with patience, care and curiosity.

Each week we'll investigate a different drawing principle through practical exercises and demonstrations. The emphasis will be on developing your observational skills, refining your technique, and enjoying the process of looking closely.

Whether you're completely new to drawing or looking to strengthen your foundational skills, this course will give you the confidence to work with pencil and fountain pen in a thoughtful and enjoyable way.

And yes... this is definitely one for those who prefer to stay clean!

Image: Jody Graham 'King Island - Currie' 2026 Pencil on paper 42cm x 29cm

Week 1 - Line

Week 2 - Tone

Week 3 - Observational Drawing

Week 4 - Texture

Week 5 - Collage

Week 6 - Composition

Materials

During the first class I'll demonstrate the materials we'll be using throughout the course. If you'd prefer to wait until after the first class before purchasing additional materials, that's perfectly fine and is what I recommend. For the first class, simply bring the following:

Several sheets of A3 cartridge paper

A 4B pencil

A sharpener

An eraser

For the remainder of the course, you'll need:

An A3 sketchbook

300gsm smooth HP A3 Pad

A Progresso pencil - (68 or 8B water-soluble) or ArtGraf

A Uni-ball pen and/or a fountain pen

Fountain pen ink cartridges (if using a fountain pen) & waterpen

Self release tape

12 watercolour coloured pencils

Chinese drawing brush

Black ink

I'm looking forward to spending six weeks drawing together, slowing down, sharpening our observational skills, and discovering how much can be achieved with the simplest of materials.

Workshop Details

Some parking onsite, and close to public transport and local cafés

Morning tea provided

Air-conditioned studio for comfort

Please note: The venue includes stairs and is not fully accessible. Assistance can be arranged if required.

Disclaimer:

By booking this workshop, you agree to take full responsibility for your safety while traveling to and from the venue and during the workshop. The organisers are not liable for accidents, injuries, or loss of property during the event.