Illustration

What will the course Cover?

Each course, through the year, focuses on a specific visual element, integral to illustration. We will begin with a technique-based project to build your basic skills, then gradually explore more complex areas such as visual storytelling, page layout and design, and developing consistent characters with movement and expression. Through a hands-on approach, you will develop your practical skills and ideas development to expand your creative abilities in response to a brief.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for anyone interested in improving their drawing skills, exploring illustration techniques, and learning how to tell stories through images.

What skills, knowledge or experience do I need to start this course?

Some prior experience with drawing or illustration can be helpful, but it’s not required - beginners are very welcome. The course is also suitable for returning learners who want to continue developing their skills. Each term introduces a new project, offering fresh opportunities to further develop your skills, techniques and ideas.

What should I be able to do by the end of the course?

By the end of this course, you will use a range of media, including watercolour, coloured pencil, and ink, to create engaging visuals. You will gain an understanding of page layout and design, learning how to organise visual elements to support narrative flow. Through exploration of visual storytelling, you will learn how to convey narrative through the sequence of images. Using the techniques explored, you will create a finished illustrated project.

How is the course organised?

Demonstrations, presentations, handouts, individual and group drawing tasks, informal discussions and feedback.

What extra study or practice is expected outside of the class?

You will be encouraged to draw between sessions to build confidence and develop your ideas. You should also collect visual references and inspiration related to your project to inform your illustrations and storytelling.

How will my progress be assessed?

Through tutor feedback, one-to-one and in group discussions. Progress will be recorded on an Individual Learning Plan (ILP), which helps track your development and set personal goals.

What can I expect to go on to after this course?

After completing this course, you may wish to continue developing your skills by enrolling in further illustration courses. You might also explore related areas through such as A Practical Introduction to Adobe Photoshop, Block Printing with Linocut, or a range of drawing and painting courses. This course can also help you begin building a portfolio to support further study in art and design.

Are there any other costs and what do I need to bring?

Please bring a few basic materials to the first session: a 2B pencil, coloured pencils, a pen with waterproof ink, and a sketchbook. These tools will support your practice both in class and at home.

What support is available?

Details of all available support can be found on our website (https://www.hfals.ac.uk/information-advice), in the Guide and the Student handbook, or from teaching or reception staff.

Tutor - TRISHA KRAUSS

Trisha Krauss began her career as a freelance illustrator in New York city where she was a long-term contributor to the New York Times. She has spent the last 20 years in London illustrating books. She wrote and illustrated Charlotte’s Very Own Dress, published by Random House, and illustrated Maude, The Not So Noticeable Shrimpton, written by former Children’s Laureate, Lauren Child. Trisha’s illustrations have a fresh quirky edge, combining her love for pattern, people, pets, fashion, furniture and buildings. She has been teaching Illustration at Macbeth Centre in Hammersmith since 2015, and Textile Techniques since 2022.