Discover the beauty of classical portrait drawing using just two pencils—sanguine and white—on hand-toned paper, working from a reference.

Portrait Drawing in Sanguine & White chalk on Toned Paper

A Two-Day Classical Drawing Workshop

Join me for a two-day workshop exploring the beauty and simplicity of classical portrait drawing using only sanguine and white pencil on hand-toned paper.

We will begin by preparing our own drawing surface, toning the paper with a unique mixture of inks and coffee to create a warm, harmonious ground. Working from a photographic reference, you'll learn a structured approach to portrait drawing inspired by traditional atelier methods.

The workshop begins with a live demonstration before you start your own drawing.

Day One

The focus is on construction and accuracy:

Toning the paper.

Demonstration of the drawing process.

Linear block-in of the portrait.

Proportions and placement.

Anatomical landmarks and construction of the head.

Day Two

The focus shifts to modelling and finish:

Understanding value relationships.

Rendering light and shadow to describe form.

Refining edges and transitions.

Bringing the portrait to a finished state using only sanguine and white pencil.

Materials

Carbothello Pastel Pencil 645 Red Sanguine ×3

Carbothello Pastel Pencil 100 White ×1

Bristle brush ; 1 × Kneaded eraser

1 sheet of Arches Hot Press 300 gsm paper

Workshop Information

Duration: 2 days (10 hours total — 5 hours each day)

Participants: Minimum 3- Maximum 6.

Small class sizes ensure individual guidance and plenty of one-to-one tuition.

Location: Leith, Edinburgh.

The exact venue will be confirmed once the minimum number of participants has been reached.

Description supplied by the event organiser.