A student sketching a portrait drawing of a live model in an art class

Portraiture Drawing for Beginners


Learn to draw and sketch with our drawing short courses in Sydney!

This portraiture drawing course introduces participants to the endless variation and expression of the human face. Whether you're just starting or have prior experience, this course will help you explore structure, perception, and creativity through drawing. You will develop your eye, hand, and personal style while working with experienced tutors and posing life models.

This course includes three tutorial sessions and three with life models, focusing on geometric anatomy, light and shadows, expressive techniques, and more. You'll leave with confidence and a deeper understanding of human facial structures and the portraiture process.

Course Outline

  • Explore geometric equivalents of the head, neck and shoulders
  • Study cranial mass and structural form of the head and face
  • Exercise techniques with monochromatic colour, light, and shadow to enhance 3D effects
  • Learn to stage and interpret emotions through facial expressions
  • Practice drawing hands interacting with faces for more dynamic portraits

Schedule & Pricing

  • Upcoming Start: April 27, 2026, Mondays 6:30 pm – 9:00 pm (5 sessions)
  • Location: 2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039
  • Price: $379 (includes optional materials kit purchase)
  • 15% discount when enrolling in multiple drawing courses at checkout

Materials

Additional Information

  • Wear closed-in shoes and old clothes
  • Long hair should be tied back

Details
2 hours 30 minutes

You will learn

  • Understand anatomy of the human face and head
  • Apply light and shadow to create realistic portrait depths
  • Develop observational and life-drawing techniques

You will get

  • Hands-on sessions with a live model
  • Guided tutorials from experienced instructors
  • Option to purchase a complete drawing materials kit

Appropriate for

Complete beginners and students with some drawing experience


Preparation

What to bring

  • Either purchase a materials kit or bring your own
  • Wear closed-in shoes and old clothes
  • Tie back long hair during sessions

What to wear

Casual - old clothes recommended


Your Teacher
Sydney Community College

Sydney Community College

38 reviews

Sydney Community College is a registered charity with a voluntary Board of Directors

The College has a mission to offer innovative continuing adult education and training programmes that support individual efforts and facilitate sustainable social change.

We do this by:

  • Providing quality continuing adult education opportunities for people to build practical and theoretical skills and develop knowledge;
  • Leveraging from and developing community capacity and inclusivity;
  • Developing innovative affordable and accessible skills training programmes;
  • Partnering with like organisations to deliver learning opportunities for disadvantaged individuals and communities;
  • Partnering with all levels of government to deliver education policy objectives.

Terms

Cancellations & Refunds

If the organiser cancels the class:

You are entitled to a full refund.

If you can't attend the class:

You’re welcome to send someone in your place.

OR

  • A refund can be requested 10 days before class starts. An admin fee of AU$45.00 applies.

Terms & Conditions

At Sydney Community College, we know that plans can change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a shift in your schedule, a family emergency, or just a change of heart, we want to support you in the fairest way possible.  

At the same time, we’re a not-for-profit organisation that commits resources to running each class—so last-minute cancellations can significantly impact our ability to offer quality, affordable programs.

That’s why we’ve created a simple, transparent policy that balances your need for flexibility with our need to plan and deliver courses sustainably.  Our cancellation policy offers two clear options, depending on when you notify us:

Cancel More Than 10 Days Before the Course Starts – You can choose to receive a full refund, minus a $45 administration fee OR a non-refundable credit note valid for 12 months for the full value you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College. 

 Option 2: Cancel Within 10 Days of the Course Starting - You’ll receive a credit note valid for 12 months for 50% of the course fee you paid for the course. This credit can be used towards any future course at the College. 

Please note that both refund and credit options are only available before the course begins. Once the course has started—or if you decide to withdraw after it has commenced—no refunds or credits can be issued.  If you need to cancel your enrolment, just email us and we’ll take care of it based on the timelines above.

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