Illustration for Beginners

This course offers a friendly and accessible introduction to the exciting world of illustration. Designed with beginners in mind - but open to all abilities - it's perfect for anyone who wants to build drawing skills, explore creativity or return to art after a break. You'll work in a relaxed and supportive environment as you experiment with different techniques and begin to develop your own illustrative style.

Each week focuses on a different aspect of illustration, including drawing foundations, observational sketching, character design, visual storytelling, inking, colour, and mixed media. Throughout the course, you'll take part in hands-on activities and guided exercises building toward your own unique final piece or project.

What you will learn:

• Introduction to illustration with warm-up drawing exercises
• Foundations of drawing using simple techniques
• Line quality and inking techniques, including expressive linework and shading
• Colour theory and how colour supports ideas and mood
• Nature and botanical illustration through observational drawing (bring leaves, flowers, or fruit)
• Character design and concept art basics
• Visual storytelling and using images to communicate short narratives
• Perspective and environments, including creating believable spaces (possible outdoor sketches)
• Mixed media exploration
• Weekly sketchbook practice to support personal style development (optional homework encouraged)

Final Project

Learners will plan and create a finished illustration project of their choice, such as:

•  A poster
• A children's book spread
• A character within an environment
• A short comic strip

By the end of the course, you will have a stronger foundation in drawing, greater confidence in your creative abilities and a completed final artwork piece to showcase your progress.