CLASSICAL
DRAWING
SUMMER WORKSHOP 2025
Workshop Details
This workshop is an opportunity to study in the atelier method using the sight-size technique to develop a strong foundation in drawing. Students will develop foundational drawing skills by completing two-dimensional Bargue drawings, and then advancing to cast drawing from life. Bargue and cast drawings are an essential aspect to atelier training, a prerequisite to studying oil painting, and recommended to any artist wishing to learn or enhance knowledge of: proportions, tonal values, quality of line, chiaroscuro, form, and composition. Thorough familiarity with the best techniques for use with pencil, charcoal and various papers will be acquired.
This workshop serves artists of all levels, from beginners to accomplished artists. To learn the stages of how to build up tone, one may expect to work on a cast drawing for up to two weeks. Full day students work on a morning drawing and a separate afternoon drawing.
Copying Bargue drawings and cast drawings made directly from life are excellent ways for artists wishing to learn or enhance knowledge of:
proportion
tonal values
chiaroscuro
composition
placement
developing an outline
shadow line
form
big shapes to fine details
building up tone and layering
unified field of vision
A student may expect to gain knowledge of the various tools essential in drawing:
charcoals
pencils
stumps
hand made papers
kneadable and plastic erasers
classical sharpening techniques
plumb line
sight mirror
The Instructor
Jonathan Sherman studied and taught in ateliers in Florence, Italy before returning to the United States to open his eponymous studio. For 20 years he has trained aspiring Artists in the development of their art and craft. He has also continued to create original and commissioned works of Art, which are housed in private and corporate collections throughout Europe, Australia, and the United States.
“Jonathan Sherman is a magnificent artist who has extraordinary insight into the mind and experiences of a developing artist. He has expertly guided me to develop a foundation of tried and true old master methods, more efficiently than I ever imagined. His individualized guidance has been pivotal for me as an artist and, in many ways, personally transformative. I am deeply grateful.” – S. Shea
The Studio
The Studio of Jonathan Sherman is a 1,600 square foot space in the historic Mugford Building, built in 1880. It has large, north facing windows — ideal light for drawing and painting. Located centrally in the historic district of Marblehead, Massachusetts, students can enjoy their breaks at nearby parks on our famed harbor; at a number of cafés and restaurants in the immediate vicinity of the studio; or walking through our colonial village. If you’re considering traveling from afar, Condé Nast Traveler and Vogue have named Marblehead one of the best summer destinations in New England. There are a number of options for short-term accommodations in town; please feel free to contact the studio for specific recommendations. We’ll look forward to seeing you.
Workshop Schedule, Tuition & Registration
Students may choose which session/s they would like to register for.
SESSION 1
July 14th — July 25th
SESSION 2
July 28th — August 8th
SESSION 1 + 2
July 14th — August 8th
Students may choose their preferred time of day for study — mornings, afternoons or the full day.
Mondays – Fridays
Mornings: 9am – 12pm
Afternoons: 1pm – 4pm
SESSION 1 or 2 TUITION
Mornings: $1,000
Afternoons: $1,000
Full day: $1,500
SESSION 1 + 2 TUITION
Mornings: $1,750
Afternoons: $1,750
Full day: $2,500
*Klarna payment plans for up to 36 months available at checkout. Materials not included.
