From pencil to pixel: iPad drawing weekend
Weekend-long practical course
11 September 2021 10.30am - 5.30pm12 September 2021 10.30am - 5.30pm
The Clore Learning Centre, Burlington Gardens, Royal Academy of Arts
£420. Includes all materials.
Terms and conditions
In a contemporary update to the RA’s traditions of drawing from life and antique casts, this course explores drawing with Apple’s iPad Pro and Apple Pencil technologies.
As David Hockney said: “Anyone who likes drawing and mark-making will like to explore new media. Picasso would have gone mad with this (iPad). So would Van Gogh. I don’t know an artist who wouldn’t actually.”
New technologies have both challenged and enhanced opportunities for artists using painting and drawing-based approaches. Pixels and electronic light are now just as crucial to a contemporary artist’s arsenal as pencils, charcoal and graphite were to previous generations.
In the midst of the pandemic, David Hockney was able to create 116 new works, using his iPad to capture the unfolding of Spring in Normandy. Inspired by these works, this intensive weekend course will cover all aspects of these exciting new technologies, from creating initial sketches to fully-realised layered compositions.
This course is suitable for enthusiastic and curious beginners, as well as those with previous experience of drawing who wish to develop their understanding of digital applications and new digital pencil technology.
Painter and printmaker Mark Hampson is a senior fellow of the Royal College of Art and Head of Fine Art Processes here at the Royal Academy. He has held over 40 solo exhibitions, including his 2012 exhibition Almost Real Art which was hosted at the RA. Drawing, the figure, narrative and humour are all integral to his art, leading him to be described as a ‘Contemporary Hogarthian Conceptualist’. Mark has worked with digital technologies in printmaking and textile production as a central aspect of his studio practice for 20 years.
All specialist materials, including the loan of an iPad Pro and Apple Pencils, will be provided for the duration of the course.
The number of participants is strictly limited to enable detailed feedback from the course tutor.
Covid-19 update: We are looking forward to welcoming you back in a way that ensures everyone's safety. Numbers will be limited to allow for social distancing, and we will be following the latest government guidelines. In the event of another national lockdown or enforced closure, we reserve the right to move this event online or to a future date. If you have any questions or concerns, or would like to discuss any accessibility needs, please contact academic.programmes@royalacademy.org.uk.
Minimum age 18.
Our courses and classes programme
Our varied programme of short courses and classes provides an opportunity to explore subjects ranging from life drawing to the history of exhibitions and arts management, led by expert tutors and practising artists. These courses introduce traditional art-making processes, as well as perspectives on art history, theory and business.
Give this course as a gift
All of our courses can be purchased as a gift for a friend or family member – giving the gift of education and a remarkable experience. To arrange a personalised Gift Voucher, please contact the Academic Programmes Team, by calling 020 7300 5641 or email academicprogrammes@royalacademy.org.uk