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The human figure has been studied by artists for centuries, yet it is still one of the most contemporary subjects in art; constantly reinvented, it has the capacity to reflect the ideas and values of its time. Within this context, the Figure Course here at Leith School of Art provides a dynamic environment for students to develop and portray their personal vision of the figure.
We spoke with current student Alyssa Heath about her time on the course so far.
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Why did you choose to study the Figure Course at Leith School of Art?
I haven’t seen a lot of courses that would allow me to really specialise in drawing and painting the figure. I’ve always enjoyed drawing people, but I felt like I’d never had the chance to really push myself and see how far I could develop my work. The Figure course at Leith felt like a good opportunity to do that. I was also really attracted to the fact that we work from life models every week and we have longer poses than you get at a traditional life drawing class.
Additionally, a big part of why I chose Leith was the flexibility. I have young children. Studying part time means I can balance my art practice and my other responsibilities.
I also take the Contemporary Art Practice course at LSA. I think one of the unique strengths of LSA is that you can pick courses that suit your particular interests as an artist.
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How would you describe your time at Leith School of Art?
I’ve had a great time at LSA. I’ve been really pleased to see what consistent, regular practice working from the figure has done for my drawing and painting. Working from life is always such a privilege and I’m so grateful for the experience.
The class has been a really welcoming environment, lots of room to experiment, with great feedback from the tutor and other students. I am starting to conquer my fear of oil paint. I’ve also had the chance to try, or re-try materials that I haven’t touched since school like soft pastels.
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How do you think the Figure Course has prepared you for post-LSA life?
Too soon to say, I’m coming back next year! I’m signed up for Advancing Studio Practice and I am planning to continue to develop my work. But it has definitely helped me to build confidence in my work, and I’ve gone from just panicking about whether my drawing will come out well to thinking more strategically about how and why I want to make a piece. Thinking more about subject, narrative, composition, meaning and so on.
Do you have any advice for new and/or current students?
I think it’s really important to find your community - sharing ideas and work in progress is really rewarding.
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