Valerie Ann Xanos

In this dynamic course, you'll explore drawing as a powerful way to express your thoughts, feelings, and unique ideas. Whether new to the medium or looking to sharpen your skills, you'll investigate contemporary themes and subjects while developing essential techniques like line, perspective, tone, proportion, composition, value, gesture, and contour. Get hands-on with various traditional and modern drawing materials, experimenting with everything from charcoal and graphite to ink and vibrant water-based paints. You'll also visit the Art Institute of Chicago, interact with professional artists, and take virtual tours of museums when available¿all designed to inspire your artistic journey. This course emphasizes personal expression and creative exploration, making it the perfect space for beginners and experienced artists to discover their artistic voice. Note: Figure Drawing and Figure Painting use nude models hired by the School. Other painting and drawing classes may use them to a lesser degree.

Designed for students who want to explore and experiment with contemporary and interdisciplinary processes in drawing and painting, while developing a daily artistic practice to sustain creativity. Work outside your comfort zone with feedback and support from your instructor and peers as you explore a variety of experimental techniques and concepts, including poetics, mark making, space, and embodiment prior to undertaking an independent project of your own choosing. This is an ideal course for those who want to think differently about their creative practice.