Birmingham Life Drawing is a weekly programme of artist-led drawing sessions based at 1000 Trades in the Jewellery Quarter. Alongside our Traditional Life Drawing classes, working from a nude model, we also host Alternative Life Drawing, featuring costumed models including cosplayers, drag artists, and performers.

Both sessions are open to all abilities and follow a relaxed, welcoming format with a mix of short and longer poses, giving artists the chance to develop their observational drawing skills in a supportive environment. Whether you’re picking up a sketchbook for the first time or have years of experience, there’s a place for you.

Hosted by professional artist and illustrator Ginger Dan, Birmingham Life Drawing was created with the aim of building an inclusive creative community where people can slow down, connect through drawing, and enjoy the shared experience of making art together. The focus is on creating a friendly, accessible space where everyone feels encouraged to develop their practice, experiment, and share in a passion for drawing from life.