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Portfolio Foundations
Develop foundational drawing skills through introductory studies of line, proportion, composition, light, and shadow. Working from still lifes, draped fabric, and live models, students learn to translate three-dimensional (3D) subjects into expressive two-dimensional (2D) representations. Through guided exercises, independent assignments, and visual research, students will refine their personal creative direction and translate their interests into original work. The course culminates in an independent project, a group critique, and an individual portfolio assessment, supporting continued development and preparation for Made Institute’s Fashion Certificate Program and other courses offered, or for continued work or study in creative fields.
DATES
Choose your session:
New four-week sessions begin monthly.
Mondays & Fridays (6-9 pm) | 4 weeks | 8 classes
November 13, 16, 20, 23, 30, December 4, 7, 11th (closed for Thanksgiving)
January 4, 8, 11, 15, 22, 25, 25, 29, February 1st (closed for MLK Jr. Day)
Registration Deadline: Third week of the month
MADE RITTENHOUSE: 1719 Chestnut St, Second Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103
PROJECTS + OBJECTIVES
WEEK 1: LEARNING TO SEE
Gesture and contour drawing
Proportion and negative space
Light, shadow, and volume
Still-life and fabric studies
Independent observational assignment
WEEK 2: THE BODY IN MOTION
Drawing from live clothed models
Gesture, movement, and proportion
Fabric, folds, and the body
Expressive mark-making
Independent figure-based assignment
WEEK 3: EXPLORATION AND PERSONAL VOICE
Experimental drawing and mixed media
Visual research and concept development
Material exploration
Individual project proposals
Preliminary studies and group critique
WEEK 4: INDEPENDENT PROJECT AND PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT
Independent studio project
Individual instruction and refinement
Portfolio selection and documentation
Group critique and presentation
Personalized recommendations for continued study
SUPPLIES
Sketchbook, 9" × 12" or larger
Graphite drawing pencils (HB, 2B, 4B, 6B)
Vine charcoal and compressed charcoal
Kneaded eraser and white vinyl eraser
Drawing pad, 18" × 24"
Pencil sharpener
Portfolio folder for storing and transporting artwork (no smaller than 20” × 26”)
Additional materials for experimental assignments will be discussed during class.
No previous drawing, art, or fashion experience required. Ages 15+.
Develop foundational drawing skills through introductory studies of line, proportion, composition, light, and shadow. Working from still lifes, draped fabric, and live models, students learn to translate three-dimensional (3D) subjects into expressive two-dimensional (2D) representations. Through guided exercises, independent assignments, and visual research, students will refine their personal creative direction and translate their interests into original work. The course culminates in an independent project, a group critique, and an individual portfolio assessment, supporting continued development and preparation for Made Institute’s Fashion Certificate Program and other courses offered, or for continued work or study in creative fields.
DATES
Choose your session:
New four-week sessions begin monthly.
Mondays & Fridays (6-9 pm) | 4 weeks | 8 classes
November 13, 16, 20, 23, 30, December 4, 7, 11th (closed for Thanksgiving)
January 4, 8, 11, 15, 22, 25, 25, 29, February 1st (closed for MLK Jr. Day)
Registration Deadline: Third week of the month
MADE RITTENHOUSE: 1719 Chestnut St, Second Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19103
PROJECTS + OBJECTIVES
WEEK 1: LEARNING TO SEE
Gesture and contour drawing
Proportion and negative space
Light, shadow, and volume
Still-life and fabric studies
Independent observational assignment
WEEK 2: THE BODY IN MOTION
Drawing from live clothed models
Gesture, movement, and proportion
Fabric, folds, and the body
Expressive mark-making
Independent figure-based assignment
WEEK 3: EXPLORATION AND PERSONAL VOICE
Experimental drawing and mixed media
Visual research and concept development
Material exploration
Individual project proposals
Preliminary studies and group critique
WEEK 4: INDEPENDENT PROJECT AND PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT
Independent studio project
Individual instruction and refinement
Portfolio selection and documentation
Group critique and presentation
Personalized recommendations for continued study
SUPPLIES
Sketchbook, 9" × 12" or larger
Graphite drawing pencils (HB, 2B, 4B, 6B)
Vine charcoal and compressed charcoal
Kneaded eraser and white vinyl eraser
Drawing pad, 18" × 24"
Pencil sharpener
Portfolio folder for storing and transporting artwork (no smaller than 20” × 26”)
Additional materials for experimental assignments will be discussed during class.
No previous drawing, art, or fashion experience required. Ages 15+.