After learning the basics, many pencil artists seem to stall out and are left wondering how to make their drawing more life-like. Instruction books may help but nothing compares with taking drawing lessons from an experienced professional artist. 

No matter what your subject, adding texture and contrast will also add depth and realism to your drawings. These three day workshops are for artists that wish to learn techniques that will take their drawing to a new level of realism regardless of their current abilities. The emphasis will be on advanced shading and texture techniques using graphite, carbon, charcoal and various blending and masking techniques. 

Examples of the instructor's work will be available for close scrutiny, and questions about specific techniques will be answered and demonstrated. Students are also encouraged to bring previous work in all stages of completion for constructive critique. The supplies are included to insure that everyone will be using the exact same pencils, paper, etc. Detailed demonstrations with hands-on instruction will guide each student as to their particular use.

Class size is limited to maximize individual attention. The instructors drawing board has an attached camera that is fed to a TV screen so the class can easily see the detail of the demonstrations. Click here to see photos of a workshop in progress

 Comments from Previous Workshop Students:

"Many people can paint or draw exceptionally well – but most of them are not equipped to teach. This was not the case with J. D. – presented a very well thought out program – very easy to understand."

"Great course, lots learned in short time – will improve my portrait drawing. I will sign up for additional classes"

"Having taken art classes in drawing, this is by far the best instruction I’ve ever had. This was a first class affair! From start to finish. It is sad for the people who missed it."

"J.D. is very thorough and has a very good way of explaining things in an informal - relaxed atmosphere."

Click here for additional comments from previous workshops:

From the Instructor:

"Even though I am teaching intermediate to advanced techniques, my workshops are set up so that everyone starts off on a level playing field. We have had everyone from professional artists to kids as young as nine. Don't be concerned with your current level of drawing. I guarantee you will leave the class with new techniques and knowledge that will add depth, contrast, texture, and realism to your drawings."

J. D. Hillberry

Details about this portrait workshop:

Course Description: 

Students of this three-day workshop will explore new methods for rendering realistic looking portraits. The focus of this workshop will be on advanced shading and texture techniques. Eyes, skin, lips, hair, and clothing all have distinctively different textures. Students will learn the techniques necessary to render these textures realistically with graphite, carbon, charcoal, and various blending techniques. Reference photos will be discussed in depth, and students will learn how to identify and solve potential problems.

The lesson will culminate with everyone working on the same portrait. A reference photo and the basic outline of the portrait will be supplied so students can concentrate on the "fun" part of the drawing process with the emphasis on shading,  texturing, and making the portrait come to life.