Portrait Drawing Masterclass Residential
Four-Night Residential Check-in Monday 17th August 2026 Check-out Friday 21st August 2026
Join Wendy Barratt, Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year 2023 and acclaimed Royal Society of Portrait Painters exhibitor, for an inspiring 3-day masterclass in portrait drawing. This immersive experience goes beyond technical skills, focusing on forging a genuine emotional connection between artist and sitter through keen observation, playful mark-making and personal expression. Wendy's approach emphasises the human essence - capturing emotion, expression and the subtle shapes that define your subject, while encouraging you to develop your unique way of seeing and interpreting the world. Day 1: Playful Exploration & Observation Dive into drawing exercises designed to unleash creativity with charcoal, pencil and mixed media. Explore ways to connect deeply with your live model, sharpen your observational skills for capturing a true likeness, and experiment boldly with tools and techniques. Wendy will guide discussions on tone, values and the power of limited materials to simplify and strengthen your drawings. Days 2-3: Building Your Portrait Work intensively on creating a portrait drawing from a live sitter. Tackle challenges creatively, trust your instincts and nurture that vital artist-sitter bond. Benefit from Wendy's group tuition, live demonstrations and personalised one-to-one feedback throughout the process. Day 4: Critique & Celebration On Friday morning, showcase your completed portrait in a supportive group critique led by Wendy and featuring your fellow artists. Share insights, celebrate progress and enjoy a communal group lunch before departing Cober Hill in the early afternoon. Optional Evening Sessions Enhance your stay with these enriching activities: Life Drawing with Christopher Shaw Outdoor Sketching with Colin Powell Art History Talk with Linda Polkowski / Eddie Lawler About Wendy Barratt Winner, Sky Arts Portrait Artist of the Year 2023 (commissioned to draw Dr. Jane Goodall for the National Portrait Gallery). Exhibitions: Herbert Smith Freehills Portrait Award (National Portrait Gallery), Royal Society of Portrait Painters (2023 & 2024). Member, Contemporary British Portrait Painters (CBPP). Residential Details This masterclass includes a full board four-night stay at the scenic Cober Hill retreat, just outside Scarborough and includes all materials and equipment. Check-in: From 3pm, Monday 17th August 2026 Check-out: By 10am, Friday 21st August 2026
Cancellation Policy
Right to Cancel and Receive Reimbursement UK/EU consumers have a 14-day cooling-off period from the date of purchase for a full refund, provided the course or workshop has not yet commenced. Email info@bookaclass.com to cancel. Cancellation & Refund Policy (after 14 days): More than 8 weeks before the start date: Full refund minus £20 administration fee. 4–8 weeks before: 70% refund. 2–4 weeks before: 50% refund. Less than 2 weeks before the start or after the course has begun: No refund. Rescheduling: You may reschedule once free of charge up to 8 weeks before the start date (subject to availability). Later rescheduling incurs a £20 administration fee. To exercise your right to cancel you must inform us of your decision to cancel within the cancelation period. To cancel, contact us by email at info@bookaclass.org.