In December 2005, the Portrait Society of Canada hosted Dan Thompson’s drawing workshop at the Arts and Letters Club in Toronto, Canada. Under the instruction of the master American artist participants completed several portraits using a classical approach.
The two-day workshop was structured in two blocks. Dan explained, “Often students don’t focus enough on patterns of light and dark. That’s why for the first day I emphasize shape. For the second stage I want students to see the reason why the patterns exist, so I get them to focus on the structure and facial landmarks.”
Participants were thrilled by the workshop. Kelly McNeil explained “Dan is brilliant and I wanted to learn and explore his technique. I really like how Dan describes what he sees.”
Monica Chen explained “Dan gives you lots of information and tips. I feel more confident because of this workshop because I know I can draw more quickly and more accurately.”
Laurel McBrine stated “I studied with an artist who recommended a course with Dan. I study with whoever I can because as an artist you need to pursue growth.” Laurel further explained her impression of the workshop instructor, “Dan has a great deal of knowledge about structure and anatomy. He is a great teacher because he can impart his knowledge well and he provides excellent demonstrations. You can tell that he really cares and that he wants you to learn because he is so well organized. Plus, he is so generous with his knowledge.”
Dan further explained the goal of this teaching style, “…people need principles, not methods. Principles build, whereas methods are not always compatible!”
