UC Observational Drawing: Illustrate Your Photos

Let's turn meaningful photographs into confident, expressive drawings!

In this observational drawing class, students will learn how to carefully study their own photo references and translate what they see into strong artwork with accuracy and personal voice.

Through guided instruction and demonstrations, students will build skills in understanding proportion, value, composition, and visual storytelling while working from images they already connect with. Each artist will work at their own pace, with the support of their instructor. Pencils, markers, and colored pencils will be used to create drawings, with the option for students to work in their own favorite drawing medium if they prefer.

This class is designed to be encouraging and empowering, helping students trust their observations, strengthen their technical skills, and gain confidence in their ability to create artwork from their own sources.

Students are encouraged to bring meaningful photo references of their own choosing, but the instructor will also have a collection of interesting photos for those who do not bring their own. 

If you’d like to draw from your own photos, please bring one to start drawing on the first day! You may bring a printed copy or work from a digital image if you choose. Physically printed photos are recommended, but this is left up to your preference. 

Please choose respectful imagery and remember that all photographs must be appropriate for a classroom setting. This ensures a considerate, focused environment for all participants.

Supply List:

- 9x12 pad of hot press watercolor paper (I like this one: https://a.co/d/a9Cwid2)

- collection of double sided markers, with a brush tip and fine tip (I like these ones: https://a.co/d/b0iMrR3 ) 

- a few mechanical or #2 pencils 

- Pink Pearl eraser, or cap erasers for pencils

LOCATION:

Highland Community Center

5378 W 10400 N St., Highland, UT

If using maps, search for "Highland Community Center."

INSTRUCTOR:
This class is taught by Addie Vawdrey. Learn more about our instructors at https://www.visualartinstitute.org/art-faculty

DROP-INS:

This class IS open for drop-in students. Students can register online for a specific date or purchase a Flex Pass. Everyone is responsible for bringing their supplies for the class.

REFUND POLICY:

We are only able to offer refunds up to 2 weeks before the start of class. We do not offer refunds or credits or make-up classes to students who miss class.

TRANSFER POLICY:

We may be able to transfer you to a different class depending on space availability.

CLASS CANCELLATION:

We find that students learn better in larger groups. If we feel the number of registrations is too low to promote a good learning environment, we may cancel the class. In the event we cancel a class, we will reach out to you as soon as possible.

TUITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM:

We try to make our classes as accessible to everyone as possible. We are able to offer a limited number of tuition assistance scholarships each term. You can complete an application on our website or call our office for assistance applying. Applications are available in Spanish and English.

MULTI-CLASS DISCOUNT:

When you register for more than one class, you can receive a discount up to 10% per class! You must call and register through the front office for this discount.

ADA ACCESSIBILITY & ACCOMMODATIONS:

Our classrooms are ADA accessible. Some courses may involve tasks or activities that may be difficult for individuals with limited strength, difficulty bending over, and sitting or standing for long periods of time. We are happy to work with students to find solutions to make their experience positive and doable. For example, wheel throwing takes arm strength and bending over the wheel. Students may work on hand-building projects instead of throwing. Please reach out to our office to discuss your needs.

DIFFICULTY REGISTERING?

Please call our main office for assistance! 801.474.3796