This course offers a comprehensive introduction to full-figure drawing and oil painting, building on the skills developed in either the Year One Foundation Portrait Programme or from an intermediate level of experience in portraiture or figure in oils. The aim is to enhance participants' skills and methodologies in artmaking and realism by working from a life model.

The year-long course is structured to help participants develop a cohesive body of work, leading to a deeper understanding of the human form as it applies to both portraiture and nude figure drawing. By observing a living model, participants will learn in a supportive environment that aligns with a Kaupapa Māori framework, emphasising manaakitanga (support and respect). Supplementary lectures will develop the previous year’s lessons in Māori protocols and histories.

In the first half of the year, the focus will be on preliminary exercises that build on the methods taught in the foundation portrait course. Participants will engage in drawing from the live model through a series of quick to medium-long poses, encouraging quicker responses to the dynamics of the living figure. Exercises will be provided to enhance participants' sense of proportion, light, colour, line, and tone, along with supplementary work on anatomy and structure. Throughout the year, there will be drawing and painting demonstrations.

As the course progresses, long-pose oil painting will be integrated into the curriculum. This approach will further develop the skills learned in the first half, emphasising in-depth observation of light and its effects on the figure. Long-pose painting is essential for mastering the various elements of figure painting and will also address important visual components such as composition and tonal relationships. These methodologies will help students transition their painting processes from technical execution to a more professional practice. Supplementary lectures on art history and colour perception will provide greater context for the contemporary relevance of portraiture.

Upon completing this course, students will be able to draw and paint from a live model with increased confidence and a deeper understanding of both contemporary and traditional figure painting. Participants will leave with a knowledge and skill set that allows them to approach figure painting in a fresh and unique way.