Inspired by the first major exhibition of visionary artist Ithell Colquhoun that is currently on show at Tate Modern, this is part 1 of our Ithell Colquhoun inspired series – and the theme is 'Automatic Drawing and the Psychic Trace'.
As a surrealist, Colquhoun used automatism to bypass the conscious mind. Some prompts of purely automatic drawing techniques—eyes closed, non-dominant hand, continuous line and beyond —will be prepared to get everyone out of their logical brain to explore this creative process together.
The goal isn't an accurate drawing but a raw, honest response to the moment, capturing primal energy and subconscious impressions. The overarching focus would be The Magical Body: Drawing the Unseen; let's approach the model not just as a physical form, but as a vessel of psychic, natural, and magical energy. Let's draw what is felt and intuited, not just what is seen.
I hope you will be "freed" from your current drawing styles and success formula after this session, just like how I felt after visiting the exhibition.
Image Credit: Ithell Colquhoun, Gorgon (1946). Private Collection © Spire Healthcare, © Noise Abatement Society, © Samaritans
Our popular life drawing sessions have different themes every month. Please check https://www.instagram.com/earlymasterworks/ and https://linktr.ee/earlymasterworks for details.
Come draw with us in your favourite spacious, modern Firepit art gallery, conveniently accessible by tube, bus, river boat, cable car, and more.We create a welcoming and warm environment for all backgrounds, demographics, and skill levels at this creative social life drawing event to meet, drink, draw, and create!We do not instruct; instead, we invite participants to share. We believe that art connects people, and interactions improve creativity!
Date: 31 July, 2025 (Thursday)
Time: 7 - 9pm
Location:Firepit Art Gallery and Studios CIC10 Cutter Lane No.2 Greenwich Peninsula London SE10 0XX
Ticket:
- £5 (Concession),
- £15 (Ticket with all Art Supplies),
- £18 (Ticket with 1 Free Drink and all Art Supplies).
- We have alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
- We do not have a dinner menu.
- Eventbrite Ticket fees are on top of this price - Sorry :(
- Concession tickets are only for
==> Seniors Aged 60 or over;
==> Full-time students;
==> Asylum seekers;
==> Jobseeker's allowance/Universal Credit;
==> Income support;
==> Housing Benefit;
==> Care allowance;
==> Council tax benefit;
==> Working tax credit;
==> Employment support allowance;
==> Incapacity benefit;
==> Disability living/working allowance;
==> War disablement pension;
==> Disabled persons railcard;
==> Young Scot Card age 16-18;
==> National Entitlement Card (for disabled people);
*Proof of eligibility will be required on entry to the events.
Rundown:
Doors open: 6.45pm
Life drawing: 7 to 8:30pm (mix of short and long poses, with short break)
Door close: 9pm
House Rules:
- NO REFUNDS - Due to the amount of time and effort invested in event planning, we are unable to give refunds for this event.
- Book ASAP - Tickets are usually sold out before the event, so please book online for you and your friends in advance.
- Some basic drawing materials and paper will be available for free but if you wish to bring your own sketchbooks and materials please do!. Drawing boards, small tables and cosy sofa seats are all provided on a first come-first served basis.
- Discrimination and bullying in any form will not be tolerated at our events.
- The full price ticket includes one drink (a small glass of wine or a bottle of beer); more beverages and snacks can be purchased at the in-house bar, which we highly recommend you try!
- This is a 18+ event. We operate a challenge 25 policy at the bar, so please bring ID with you.
- Photography and Filming take place during workshops and gallery opening times. Please let us know if you do not want to be on film. All material captured is used for either our social media or future promotion.
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