Drawing the Portrait from Life

Friday, June 6, 2025 12:00 PM
Monday, June 9, 2025 1:00 PM

Willow Vermont 369 Dover Road South Newfane, VT, 05351 United States (map)

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A Visual, Conceptual, and Structural Approach

In this 4-day intensive workshop, artists will learn fundamental techniques to capturing a likeness while drawing from a live model. Beginning with a linear block-in that focuses on both the visual impression as well as the underlying structure of the skull, students will employ optical and conceptual drawing methods simultaneously.

Emphasizing keen observation, accurate shapes and proportion, artists will refine their drawings while rendering a naturalistic portrait. Taking the drawing to a finish the artists will be instructed on three-dimensional modeling of form, analysis of light direction, and finishing touches.

Over the course of the workshop, up to eighteen hours of studio time with instruction will be provided. Studio time, model fees and meals are included. Participants can choose from two residential (single or double occupancy) or one commuter option. Details below:

Single occupancy: $1,650 per person. Includes accommodation, meals, studio time, model fees, and instructional program. Vermont tax and credit card processing fees will be added at checkout.
Double occupancy (for couples or friends): $1095 per person. Includes accommodation, meals, studio time, model fees, and instructional program. Vermont tax and credit card processing fees will be added at checkout.
Commuter: $745 per person. Includes lunches, studio time, model fees, and instructional program. Vermont tax and credit card processing fees will be added at checkout.

Reserve a Spot - call 802-380-4939

About Scott Garder

Scott Garder studies drawing and painting full time at the Grand Central Atelier in Brooklyn, New York. He has spent years in study to develop his visual vocabulary and create works of art that evoke a sense of childlike wonder and reverence for the beauty of the human experience.

Read about Scott’s inspiring story of art as recovery here. Read an interview with Scott, visit his personal webpage, and view some of his works for sale.

Want to stay longer? Extend your stay!

Willow encourages retreat participants who wish to stay in the area longer to book rooms or book the treehouse on nights before and after the retreat at sharply reduced rates. Extended bookings include a hearty continental breakfast.

Individual rooms are $135-185/night for up to two people. A discount of 15% applies to bookings of 3 or more nights. We offer a seven-night single occupancy rate of $685 in selected rooms, subject to availability.

Proportion, shape and structure

The workshop will cover fundamentals of blocking the portrait

Careful Observation

Drawing with emphasis on likeness through careful observation

The Schedule

Arrival Day

Arrive between 12pm and 2pm. Get settled into your room and gather at 3pm in Willow’s studio for the first workshop. This session will feature a three hour pose. An evening meal is provided.

Full Day Workshops

Structure, anatomy, likeness, and materials will be discussed. Meals will be provided and free time after the afternoon session will allow you and other students to go on self-planned excursions in Southern Vermont (Willow has many recommendations to choose from).

Departure day

Wake up to breakfast followed by a concluding workshop from 9am to 12pm to finish up the portrait. Head home at 1pm with a renewed focus on drawing the portrait.

Reserve a Spot - call 802-380-4939

Experienced Models

Arrive and begin working with experienced life models the first day.

Drawing from Life

Structure, anatomy, likeness, and materials will be discussed

Rooms and Amenities at Willow

Willow provides comfortable overnight accommodations in double occupancy rooms. All rooms have dedicated ensuite or hall baths. We are outfitted with all the comforts of a typical guest house — linens, blowdryers, individually controlled heating and air conditioning. Our mattresses, pillows and furniture are exceptionally comfortable. Our soaps, shampoos, conditioners, and lotions are organic. We support local craftspeople by supplying Willow with handmade and high quality goods — everything from lamps to rugs have been made by hand. You will feel very much at home.

Meals at Willow

Meals are provided throughout the retreat. Our meals are healthy and filling, made of local organic and natural ingredients. Please let us know if you prefer vegetarian or gluten free options. Please let us know if you have any food allergies.

Area Attractions

Willow is located in the foothills of the Green Mountains on 5 acres of open space. The property abuts several hundred acres of woods with hiking trails. The property has a large pond, hillside garden, fire pit, and a large south-facing porch for lounging and gathering.

You will have time for optional area excursions in afternoons and evenings. On request, we would be happy to organize a group excursion. More information on amenities and area attractions is offered on our website.