Workshop in Realistic Portrait Drawing with Pencil

with Alessia Sinopoli

You like drawing but find portraits challenging?
You just need the right process! 

Then this workshop is for YOU!
And for anyone who wishes to explore realistic pencil portrait drawing from photographic references through a structured method, and wants to learn or refine pencil hatching and shading techniques.

The workshop is designed for a small group, allowing a flexible and supportive approach, adapting to each participant’s level: from guiding beginners to helping intermediate artists tackle their personal creative challenges.

Without the pressure of the final result, we will immerse ourselves in learning the method and enjoying the creative process.

You like drawing but find portraits challenging?
You just need the right process! 

Then this workshop is for YOU!
And for anyone who wishes to explore realistic pencil portrait drawing from photographic references through a structured method, and wants to learn or refine pencil hatching and shading techniques.

The workshop is designed for a small group, allowing a flexible and supportive approach, adapting to each participant’s level: from guiding beginners to helping intermediate artists tackle their personal creative challenges.

Without the pressure of the final result, we will immerse ourselves in learning the method and enjoying the creative process.

Reserve your spot!

Details

  • Duration: 4 hours
  • Participants: Maximum 8 people
  • Level: Beginners, open to all levels
  • Technique: Pencils on paper 
  • Date and time: Sundays from 2 PM to 6 PM The next available dates are December 21 and February 15. Please indicate your preferred date; you will be contacted with a confirmation.
  • Location: Kunstraum Heartspace, Danziger Str. 172, 10407 Berlin
  • Language: English
  • Price: €45 per person 
  • Materials provided: Paper, pencils, precision eraser, reference photos 

What we'll do step by step

We’ll combine theory and practice:

  • Practice targeted observation to select the best reference photo
  • Use the grid method for accurate proportions and create a preliminary sketch
  • Understand the differences between pencils of various hardness and get familiar with the materials we’ll use
  • Master shading (the real magic!) with hatching techniques to shape volume and depth
  • Train your observational skills to recognize different tonal values
  • Explore changing perspectives to refresh your vision
  • Discuss common mistakes and learn how to avoid them
  • Participate in an open Q&A, receive personalized tips, and get feedback throughout the process
  • Learn how to preserve and protect your finished portrait

Breaks and Refreshments

While drawing, we’ll enjoy some tea. Between the first and second parts of the workshop, we’ll take a relaxing 30-minute break, as drawing can be quite intense. It’ll be the perfect moment to connect, share a cup of coffee, and savor a slice of cake together.

And since it’s the pre-festive season, this time the cake will be Italian panettone, to add a touch of pre-Christmas cheer!

What is included?

Leave home as light as a butterfly, everything is provided.

All materials are provided for use during the workshop:

  • Pencils of various degrees of hardness 
  • High-quality drawing paper
  • Precision eraser, electric eraser, erasers
  • Pencil sharpeners
  • Photo references 

Refreshments are included: tea, coffee and cake.

Who is this workshop for?

This workshop is for those who want to spend a cozy and relaxing Sunday in a creative environment, while learning. We will engage intensively in shading and learn essential technical elements and a structured process that provide a solid foundation for building a portrait. Because it is from strong foundations that creativity can truly flourish, allowing subsequent portraits to develop into more intuitive, free, and personal expressions.

Location

The workshop takes place at Kunstraum Heartspace, a bright and inspiring shared studio. It’s welcoming and filled with creative energy! 

Photos - video

We host this workshop approximately every second Sunday. Please read the following conditions regarding cancellations, rebooking, and refunds. 

Rebooking

  • If you can’t attend, you may request to move your booking to a future workshop date.

Ticket Transfer

If you can’t attend and do not wish (or are unable) to rebook:

  • You may transfer your ticket to another person. Please provide the new participant’s name.

Refunds

In accordance with common practice for workshops in Germany:

  • Workshop bookings are generally non-refundable. However, if neither rebooking nor name transfer is possible for you, please reach out to me directly. I will do my best to find a solution.

No-show

  • If you do not attend the workshop without prior notice, the participation fee cannot be refunded or transferred. 

Reserve your spot!

Please provide your name, email, and preferred date.
Next available dates: December 21 and February 15. 
You will be contacted with a confirmation and payment details.

    You can redeem your gift here!

    Please provide your name, email and indicate your preferred date.
    You will be contacted with a confirmation.