The Drawing Circle
Tues., Aug. 4 & Thurs., Aug. 6, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
Location: In person: On Campus
Cost: $35
With Julie McNiel, Artist
The purpose of this drawing workshop is to experience greater focus and relaxation through a series of short warm-up breathing/stretching exercises, pencil line drawing exercises, and creative visualization. We draw as a form of meditation or mindful play; engaging in hands-on drawing practices that are process-oriented rather than product-oriented.
Your instructor will guide you through techniques including contour line drawing, drawing geometric patterns and objects from nature, using paper and pencils. You depart each session prepared for further art-making, with improved drawing skills that enhance observation and concentration, minimizing the common experience of "feeling blocked," or procrastinating due to the pressure to produce finished works of art.
These exercises are also a good way to start your own daily or weekly practice, beyond our workshop, using drawing as a portal to increased emotional and intellectual mindfulness and for creative expression, in your life overall.
Suitable for people with no prior drawing experience, as well as practicing artists of all levels who can benefit from a quiet drawing practice that supports you in developing a calm and focused mind, using minimal equipment. Great for the artist on-the-go!
Basic art supplies including pencils and paper are provided, as well as shells, stones, leaves, and other small objects to draw from. So you do not need to bring anything. We will stretch/breath and then draw for the entire session. However, participants are welcome to bring additional supplies if they wish, such as favored pencils, pens, crayons, colored papers, and sketchpads.
Please note that the Art B building is located at the center of campus which requires moderate walking including inclines or stairs to reach the classroom. Please reference this map for ADA parking and accessibility information: https://www.humboldt.edu/sites/default/files/2024-04/campusmap.pdf. Daily parking permits are still required when parking in ADA spots on campus.
Registration opens for OLLI members on May 27. Non-members may register starting May 29.
Julie McNiel
Julie McNiel has taught drawing and other art forms at universities, community centers, and art schools for over 30 years. An award-winning professional artist with a BFA in illustration and an MFA in painting, Julie has worked with diverse communities regionally, nationally, and internationally, as an arts mentor/program facilitator in sometimes unconventional spaces.
