BOLD PORTRAITS: Chalk Pastel Portraiture
Saturday 26th September with Tess Glen, 10am - 3.30pm
Class Details
BOLD PORTRAITS: Expressive Chalk Pastel Portraiture A one-day workshop exploring bold colour and raw energy in portrait drawing Discover the expressive power of chalk pastels in this energetic one-day portrait workshop. Working from a live model, you'll explore bold colour, raw mark-making, and capturing character using chalk pastels. This vibrant, immediate medium perfect for expressive portraiture. Inspired by Scottish artists John Byrne and Joan Eardley, you'll learn to create portraits that pulse with life and personality rather than photographic accuracy. No experience necessary – this workshop welcomes complete beginners alongside more experienced artists. We'll cover the fundamentals of portraiture (proportions, features, structure) while emphasizing freedom, spontaneity, and bold creative choices. What you'll learn: Basic portrait proportions and structure Working with chalk pastels (blending, layering, mark-making) Capturing character, energy, and essence Loose, confident mark-making inspired by Eardley's raw energy Using bold, expressive and theatrical colour inspired by Byrne's vivid palette What you'll create: Multiple quick portrait studies throughout the day One developed portrait to take home
Upcoming Sessions
Cancellation Policy
We hope to avoid cancelling classes or workshops whenever possible but sometimes life happens and it's unavoidable. When we have cancelled you will be offered either a refund or the opportunity to transfer your booking to another class/time. We can't offer refunds if you can't make it to a class or workshop but if there are places available on another day we will do our best to fit you in. If you cancel 14 days or more before an event we will refund you if we are able to re-sell your place(s). Registered VAT No. 463102330
Contact Details
Birchwood Art Studio, Ashley Terrace, Edinburgh, UK
0131 337 7557
hello@birchwoodart.co.uk