Life Drawing Diaries: Part 1

For the last year I’ve been taking a life-drawing class, and it’s the highlight of my week.

It’s not professional illustration, which involves problem-solving, working to a brief to tell a story or enhance a product for my client. I’m not following brand guidelines or a colour palate. And I’m not interested in making art – the pictures won’t be framed or displayed in a gallery, or even on my wall.

It’s simply drawing, for pleasure. Observing the model closely and working out their anatomy, how their bones and muscles slot together to support weight, how limbs are rounded by shadow, distorted by perspective. A new challenge with every pose.

I like to use coloured pencils in shades of rust, sepia and purple, letting the shapes emerge from earth toned, textured paper. And though I usually try to portray the full figure, this week our model had such fantastic bone structure that I was drawn to portraiture. Our models are brilliant. Being still for any length of time takes immense strength and serenity – and they twist into the most incredible shapes.

Drawing is a craft, and I can see the results of weekly observational practice, bringing more movement and life to my professional work. Sketching for the love of it has restored my pleasure in design and illustration.

If there’s a class near you then I recommend it.

Jenny Proudfoot

14 October 2025

Life Drawing by Jenny Proudfoot, Edinburgh, September 2025