Gain an introduction to the key techniques and objectives of painting portraits. Many beginning painters start out learning the fundamentals of painting through working from the still life, but soon have a desire to move on to more challenging subjects, such as painting people. Course descriptionThe first step in a successful figure painting is the ability to paint a portrait. Using oil paint, learn to identify and capture the nuances in facial features that make up a realistic and expressive likeness through the foundational techniques of portraiture: understanding the underlying structure of the face, learning to identify its proportions, and recognizing the subtle nuances and facial expressions of each subject. Learn and work from images of portraits by past and current artists. Through lecture, discussion, instructor-led demonstrations, and peer-to-peer critique sessions, learn to approach painting the portrait in a thoughtful and insightful way. / Material fee of $12 included in class tuition. Open to students ages 18 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration.Class meeting detailsThis course meets in person on MCAD’s campus.PrerequisitesPrevious drawing and painting experience required.Required MaterialsSupplies for first classpen or pencilnotebook or sketchbooktwo sheets of 22 x 30" Arches cover white paperone 18 x 24" drawing board (or larger)one 32 oz. container of acrylic gessogesso brusha roll of white artist's tapeone 32 oz. container of Gamsol odorless mineral spirits12 x 16" pad of disposable palette papercloth ragtwo metal palette knives in varying shapes and sizesvarious brushes, natural bristle, from size #4-#20 (mid-range in price brushes are best)Oil paints, 37ml, (recommended: Gamblin 1980 oil paint):alizarin crimsoncadmium red mediumcadmium yellow lightphthalo greentitanium whiteultramarine blueyellow ochreStudents should expect to spend approximately $250-$275 on supplies.What to wearClothes appropriate for messy creativity. An apron or smock may be useful. Class savingsRegister on or before May 11 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?Questions?Contact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765. Register Title Non-credit Tuition $507.00 Tuition Type Non-credit TuitionOne Credit Tuition Not Yet Open for Registration Registration opens April 27. Date: Tue, Jun 2, 2026 - Tue, Aug 4, 2026 Time: 6:30 p.m.–9:30 p.m. CT Day(s) of the week: Tuesday Ages: Open to students ages 18 and above. Term: Summer 2026 Instructor: Sarah Wieben Location: In Person SKU: CSFA 3104 01 SU26 Prerequisites: Previous drawing and painting experience required.