Life Drawing Classes at Bright Day

Capture the beauty of the human body in all its shapes, forms and sizes

At Cape Town’s Bright Day creative space the philosophy is that anyone can learn to draw. Nervous and insecure types can gain confidence with an I Know Nothing class that guarantees individual attention or can just leap in with a life drawing class.

The latter challenges both novices and aspiring Renoirs to draw a human figure, and yes, the models are nude. If you think it’s intimidating to be an inexperienced artist, just think what it must be like to take your clothes off in a room full of strangers. No matter which side of the easel you are on, it’s challenging and liberating.

“Still life is an apple and a bowl, and if you think about it, what is a human body but the same shapes,” says Bright Day founder Ross Chowles. It’s difficult to refute logic like that. One of the things they teach you at the Woodstock art studio is to look and observe, and once you have learned to do that, it’s fairly easy to translate what you see onto paper. Maybe your drawing will be brilliant or maybe it will be a bit rough around the edges (apparently even great artists are their own worst critics), but either way you’ll be taking a chance on yourself and your creative potential.

Unlike other art classes at Bright Day, there is no instruction offered for the life drawing; although, a lecturer is on hand. Models are all shapes, sizes and ages, all with different looks.

The atmosphere at Bright Day is comfortable and relaxed, which is helped along with background music and refreshments, including tea and coffee  and a few stronger things from the honesty bar. During winter, you will be welcomed with a glass of sherry.

Booking for and cost of Bright Day’s Life Drawing Classes

Bright Day’s life drawing classes run every Monday from 7pm to 10pm. There are only 15 spots available, so be sure to book in advance by calling +27 (0) 21 448 5527. The classes cost R150p/p, and materials – paper and charcoal – are included.

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Rad time alone with a pencil and paper at a drawing workshop.

Keen on exploring other painting and drawing styles? Read more about Bright Day's art class offering. 

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