Expressive Portrait Sketching in Charcoal

About the class

The fleeting glance, the dramatic tilt of the head, the striking smile... learn how to draw expressive portrait sketches in charcoal in this beginner-friendly class!

This three hour session introduces charcoal techniques and strategies to help you draw portraits efficiently and confidently. You’ll work from a live model in short 5–20 minute poses, exploring key skills—gesture, structure, and value—along with practical tips for quick sketching.

Whether you want to draw friends, develop sketches for larger works, or simply enjoy the process of capturing a likeness, this class is designed to help you build confidence, develop fluency, and find joy in bringing faces to life.

About the instructor

I'm Kevin McGillivray, I'm a visual artist based in Wisconsin, working primarily in charcoal drawing and oil painting. My work explores themes of mythic perception, wholeness, and the Quality Without a Name. I've been practicing in drawing and oil painting since 2012 with a focus on expressive mark-making and direct observation, and I'm the host and organizer of Appleton Drawing Club.

In my classes, I aim to create a welcoming, encouraging space for artists of all levels, whether you're new to charcoal or returning to drawing after some time away. I focus on exercises for your hands, eyes, mind, and heart to develop fluency in foundational drawing skills as well as your own artistic vision and creative practice. I hope you will join us, and I look forward to drawing with you!

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