Graphite Wash: Sketching Workshop

Broaden your skills and tonal expression with our Drawing Courses in Sydney!

Elevate your artistic skills in this workshop led by watercolour artist Tony Belobrajdic, exploring the creation of studies and sketches using a combination of graphite and water wash.

Through in-depth artist demonstrations and hands-on exercises, you'll learn the art of working with graphite sticks and pencils to craft a captivating black-and-white drawing. Witness the transformation of your creation into a tonal watercolour masterpiece using only water and a brush.

This technique offers enhanced control compared to traditional watercolours, resulting in a simple yet striking monotone image replete with texture and depth. Ideal for studies and sketches, this method can also be refined into a highly detailed drawing.

Learning outcomes

By the end of this washed graphite course, you should be able to:

• Acquire a comprehensive understanding of working with graphite sticks to create intricate and captivating black-and-white drawings.
• Learn the step-by-step process of transforming graphite sketches into tonal watercolour masterpieces, utilising water and a brush to bring depth and life to your artwork.
• Develop a heightened sense of control in your artistic expression by exploring how this technique provides more precision and control compared to traditional watercolours.
• Explore the creation of simple yet striking monotone images, understanding how to balance texture and depth within your artwork with wash techniques. 
• Discover the versatility of the technique, as it not only lends itself well to studies and sketches but can also be refined into highly detailed drawings, allowing for a broad range of artistic possibilities.

Course content

What will be covered in this washed graphite course?

• Basic drawing methods and composition
• Sketching out with a pencil
• Using graphite stick for lines, shading and highlights
• Water and brush techniques to add tone and soften
• Final detailing and charcoal for darkest accents

Who is this washed graphite course for?

All are welcome, but some level of drawing or painting skill is advised.

Course venue

Rozelle Campus

2A Gordon Street, Rozelle NSW 2039 (corner of Gordon St & Victoria Rd on the grounds of St. Joseph's Church)

If driving, there is no entry into Gordon Street from Victoria Road. The last block on your right before Victoria Road. Pedestrian access is opposite Prince Street.

What to bring to class

• 1 water-soluble graphite soft bar
• 1 water-soluble graphite pencil
• 1 round size 16 watercolour brush

What will be provided

• 1 sheet of watercolour paper (cold-pressed, medium or rough)
• Charcoal sticks or pencils

Additional information

• Closed-in shoes required
• Please wear old clothes
• Long hair must be tied back