Figure Drawing through the eyes of Hans Hofmann (1880-1966) with Laura Shabott

Hofmann’s theory of pushing and pulling a composition on a two-dimensional surface is best understood when drawing from life with charcoal on paper. We will work using guided exercises that demonstrate this fundamental principle and how it is integral to understanding modern art.

Our course begins with a lecture on Hofmann’s push/pull theory by examining the work of his students and continues with 2.5 hours of drawing, with a break for lunch.

Each artist, no matter what your level of experience, will leave with a deeper understanding of how you respond to the figure in your art.

Supply List:

• One 18 x 24” sized white acid-free drawing pad with at least 25 sheets. Strathmore Windpower, XL Sketch are two of many options. There is great benefit in seeing how other people approach drawing on the same-sized surface.

• One package Vine Charcoal: Grumbacher Soft 3-Sticks or Nitram Soft Fine Art Charcoal

• One Artist Chamois

• Two Faber-Castell Kneadable Art Erasers

• One Acid-Free Glue Stick: Avery, Blick, and 3M are good.

• Scotch Tape (temporary, so any kind will do)

• Scissors

• Gloves (like for food prep)

Image: Blanche Lazzell, Untitled Drawing with Hofmann annotations, marked “summer 1937”, 1937, charcoal on paper, 25 x 19 inches West Virginia University Art Collection

Laura Shabott is a graduate of the School of Museum of Fine Arts at TUFTS, Boston, with multiple self-directed Returning Residencies at the Fine Arts Work Center (FAWC), Provincetown. She is known for working directly from life using sweeping gestural forms, vibrant color and bold brushwork. Shabott’s post-college training at FAWC and the Provincetown Art Association and Museum is evident in her process-based approach. A studio artist, she is a gallerist, teacher and lecturer on the history of Provincetown art. Shabott recently presented her first solo show YOU ONLY GET ONE BODY: Art by Laura Shabott at the Cape Cod Museum of Art.

Cancellation policy: CCMoA must be notified 1 week prior for refund.