Discover a personal means of depicting the figure with accuracy, sensitivity, and expression. Course descriptionThe act of drawing from the live human form can feel intimidating. The key to success lies in a sound understanding of the creative problem-solving process, in combination with an acknowledgment and recognition of one's own "creative DNA." To aid in these endeavors, engage in studio exercises with supplemental discussions, presentations, readings, and researching figure drawing artists. In addition, learn a degree of figurative art history, hear about recent research done on the creative workings of the human mind, and discuss classical ideas regarding education. Through this rich approach, discover a personal means of depicting the figure with accuracy, sensitivity, and expression.Initial studio time is focused on a series of brief exercises devised to develop both observational skills and the ability to draw the figure proportionately in a limited amount of time. Successive sessions cover topics such as composition, perspective, anatomy, and the concept of the critique, as more in-depth processes are applied to longer poses. / Materials fee of $105 is included in course tuition.Open to students ages 18 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration.Please note that one of the classrooms is only accessible via stairs. If you need accommodations (i.e. are unable to navigate stairs) please contact the Continuing Education office.Class meeting detailsThis class meets in person on MCAD’s campus.Prerequisites Previous drawing experience is required.Required materialsSupplies for the first class18 x 24” newsprint pad18 x 24” drawing paper pad6B soft charcoal pencilwhite charcoal pencil2 boxes extra soft vine charcoal (not willow)2 pack black conte crayons (2B)pen eraserwhite eraserkneaded eraserOptional supplies18 x 24” drawing boardStudents should expect to spend approximately $50 on supplies in addition to tuition.What to wearClothing appropriate for messy creativity.Class savingsRegister on or before January 19 and save $25.Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).Additional savings. Are you eligible?QuestionsContact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765. Register Title Non-credit Tuition $600.00 Tuition Type Non-credit TuitionOne Credit Tuition Not Yet Open for Registration Registration opens January 5. Date: Thu, Feb 12, 2026 - Thu, Apr 16, 2026 Time: 6:30–9:30 p.m. CT Day(s) of the week: Thursday Ages: Open to students ages 18 and above. Term: Spring 2026 Instructor: Susan Shields Location: In Person SKU: CSFA 3303 01 SP26 Prerequisites: Previous drawing experience is required.