Drawing and Painting for Illustration

Course overview

Explore the vibrant world of illustration in this comprehensive 8-week journey designed for adults at all skill levels. Whether you’re illustrating for pleasure, dreaming of creating your own books, or rekindling your artistic passion after a break, this illustration course will expand your horizons and build your confidence in unexpected ways.

Your tutor, Linda Newcombe, is an award-winning illustrator and artist whose work centres around drawing and printmaking. With years of teaching experience, Linda expertly guides students through various illustration methods—from watercolour and gouache painting to line art, mixed media, and cut-out techniques.

Through hands-on exploration of diverse illustrative techniques, you’ll discover new possibilities and uncover your distinctive style. From traditional drawing and painting to experimental mixed media and collage—with exciting printmaking elements—you’ll experience the full spectrum of illustration approaches in a supportive environment.

By the end of the illustration course, you will:

  • Develop confidence through a range of illustration techniques
  • Explore various media including watercolour, gouache, and mixed media
  • Create illustrations using different approaches
  • Build a mini portfolio showcasing your developing style
  • Understand how to approach illustration projects with creativity and skill

Each session offers practical exploration or different methods, building a solid foundation for your future creative projects. You’ll leave the course with a diverse portfolio of techniques and the know-how to pursue your artistic aspirations.

The learning experience includes:

  • Demonstrations and examples from your experienced tutor
  • Guided hands-on practice with personalized feedback
  • Experimentation with various materials and techniques
  • Small group discussions and sharing of ideas
  • Progressive skill development through illustration projects

All basic materials provided including:

  • Drawing paper
  • Watercolours, acrylic and gouache paints
  • Drawing tools and brushes
  • Mixed media materials
  • Basic printmaking supplies

Do bring along:

  • A sketchbook (A4 size recommended)
  • Any favourite art materials you already own (optional)
  • Specialist equipment (like craft knives, watercolour brushes, good quality paper etc)
  • Reference images, books or ideas you aspire to or would like to explore
  • A folder to transport your work safely
  • Your enthusiasm and creativity!

 

This illustration course runs over 8 weeks during term time only. The focus will differ each term so that you can try new approaches and build a varied portfolio.

Discover the endless possibilities at City of Oxford College and embark on a creative journey. Please see: Illustration for All: Discover Your Creative Potential, and Illustration Techniques.

This illustration course is suitable for complete beginners as well as those with some prior art experience.

The small class size ensures personalised attention and guidance throughout your learning journey.

Course Starts in 206 Days

Tue 13 January 2026

Enrol now

Alternatively enrol by phone quoting 3AEADEA11R

Meet the tutors

We want our learners to feel welcome, safe and at ease when attending our classes, especially if this is your first time attending an adult education class or if you're coming back to education after a break.
If you're interested in one of courses, meet our tutors first! You'll see they have similar passions and interests and, most importantly, the right qualifications to help you make the most of your time and money.

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