The Florence Academy of Art's
Intensive Drawing Program

(Full time diploma, 1 year)

Bargue Drawing
Cast Drawing
Figure Drawing

The Intensive Drawing Program is the first year of the Painting curriculum, and a requirement for entry to the Painting course. Drawing correctly from nature is a basic skill and the foundation to good painting and sculpture. The program is designed to strengthen the student's visual relationship with three-dimensional form, allowing him to confront the human figure, and eventually to paint in oil. All students begin by copying 19th century academic drawings (produced by Charles Bargue upon request by Jean Leon Gèrome), then progress to copying plaster casts of antique and Renaissance statues. These exercises focus on outline, proportion, gesture and shadow shape. Students are taught the sight-size method in order to view the subject accurately, and translate three-dimensional form in two dimensions. They apply this method of measurement to casts, still lifes, the human figure and portraiture. Students work through specific exercises, on a step by step progression through the program's curriculum. As each requisite skill is acquired, a new more difficult task is assigned. Upon successful completion of the program, students will have acquired a very high practical ability, together with a deep insight into the theory and historical traditions of drawing. Those who wish to may apply to the second year of the three year Painting course.