The Foundations of Drawing in the Barnes Collection

About the Class

Drawing is one of the oldest and most direct forms of artistic expression—a way of observing, thinking, and understanding the world. In this one-day on-site workshop, participants will explore the foundations of drawing through close study of works in the Barnes collection and guided hands-on practice.

Led by artist Michael Kowbuz, the workshop introduces core drawing concepts, including line, proportion, composition, gesture, and shading, while examining how artists across historical periods approached drawing as both preparation and finished expression.

Through demonstrations, gallery visits, and practical exercises, participants will strengthen their observational skills and gain confidence in drawing as a creative and analytical tool. No prior experience is required.

Capacity: 25

Barnes classes will:

• Sharpen your observational and critical-thinking skills.
• Improve your ability to communicate about art.
• Deepen your appreciation for cultures and histories outside your own.

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What Students Are Saying

“Joe Tokumasu Field was a wonderful instructor. He’s patient, caring, and skilled at interacting with students’ questions and comments.” —The Japanese American Century with Joseph Tokumasu Field

“This was an exciting course with fascinating and informative lectures and well-chosen pictures. Franits is a brilliant teacher.” —17th-Century Dutch Art’s “Holy Trinity”: Hals, Rembrandt, and Vermeer with Wayne Franits

“The instructor was outstanding in every way—an expert in the subject, enthusiastic about the material, solicitous and supportive of students’ observations, and brilliant in expanding our discussion as warranted. The best Barnes instructor I’ve had, by far.” —The Nabis: Late 19th-Century Prophets of the New with Larissa Bailiff

“I enjoyed the course very much and liked how each week focused on a different topic relevant to the subject. Caterina is an engaging speaker, and you can tell she loves what she is teaching. Her enthusiasm and sense of humor come through.” —Famous Heists: Crimes in the History of Art with Caterina Pierre

“I felt at peace afterward and appreciated the art so much more than before.” —Being Present with Art: Cultivating Balance for Spring with Roksana Filipowska