Drawing and watercolour for beginners

What you’ll learn:

Observational drawing techniques (line, shape, proportion)

Shading, tone and creating depth

How to draw simple still life and reference images

Watercolour basics: washes, layering and brush control

Colour mixing and creating atmosphere in your work

How to develop a finished piece with confidence

5-Week Course Breakdown

Week 1 Seeing Like an Artist: Line & Shape: Focus: Observation and accuracyLearn how to draw what you actually see, not what you think you see. You’ll break objects down into simple shapes and lines, improving proportion and placement.

• Introduction to observational drawing

• Measuring and proportion techniques

• Line quality and control

• Simple still life drawing

Outcome: A confident line drawing with accurate proportions

Week 2 :Tone, Light & Shadow

Focus: Creating depth and realismDevelop your drawings by adding tone. Learn how light creates form and how to shade effectively.

• Understanding light source and shadow

• Tonal scales and blending

• Creating 3D form on paper

• Developing last week’s drawing

Outcome: A fully shaded drawing with depth and contrast

Week 3: Introduction to Watercolour

Focus: Control and confidence with paintBe introduced to watercolour techniques and how to handle the medium without fear.

• Brush control and water ratios

• Flat washes and graded washes

• Layering and transparency

• Simple colour studies

Outcome: A series of watercolour technique samples

Week 4 : Colour, Atmosphere & Composition

Focus: Bringing paintings to lifeLearn how to use colour effectively and begin a more developed watercolour piece.

• Colour mixing and harmony

• Creating mood and atmosphere

• Composition basics

• Starting a final painting

Outcome: A well-structured watercolour painting in progress

Week 5 — Final Piece & Finishing Techniques

Focus: Resolution and confidenceComplete your final artwork, refining details and learning how to bring a piece together.

• Layering and finishing techniques

• Adding detail and contrast

• Personal guidance and refinement

• Review and next steps

Outcome: A completed watercolour artwork to take home