Class Description
Get ready to bring your creations to life! In this class, students will learn how to take their favorite drawings of things, animals or characters and make them look more realistic using shape building, shading, and awesome detail techniques. We’ll dive into learning about drawing through playful practice—observing real-life shapes, experimenting with lines, and discovering what makes a character instantly appealing. Students will also explore basic character design tips. Perfect for young artists who love to create and want to push their artwork to the next level!
Learning Objectives: in this class…
- Students will observe and break down real-world objects, animals, and characters into basic shapes in order to improve accuracy and realism in their drawings;
- Students will apply line quality, shading, and value techniques to add depth, texture, and dimension, making their drawings appear more realistic and visually engaging;
- Students will experiment with color choices and detailing techniques to enhance mood, clarity, and appeal in digital illustrations;
- Students will demonstrate an understanding of basic character design principles—such as shape language, proportions, and expressiveness—by creating a character design one-sheet;
- Students will create a digital portfolio that documents their artistic process and growth, showcasing early work, technique practice, and a final polished drawing that demonstrates improved realism and design.
- Students will learn the art of the peer critique and give peer critiques on the progress of student work;
- Students will explore opportunities and potential resources on career pathways;
- Students will learn how to distribute, exhibit, and promote artwork for a variety of audiences.
Equipment
- iPad
- iPencil
Software
- Procreate
Deliverables: Students and Class Projects
- Students will build a digital portfolio that shows artistic growth, including a “Before” drawing, several technique practice pieces (shape, line, shading, color), and a final “After” showpiece that reflects improved realism and design skills.
- Students will create a digital portfolio with several sketches incorporating basic character design.
