The Art & Science of Drawing / DYNAMIC MARK MAKING Course Syllabus

Overview (80-120 words) describing structure and time commitment.

Module 1: Introduction to Dynamic Mark Making

Estimated time: 1-2 hours

• Understand the role of dynamic mark making in creating energy and expression
• Study different types of marks: broad, fine, sharp, and soft lines
• Learn the importance of mark variation in conveying movement and texture
• Explore the foundational principles of expressive line work

Module 2: Tools & Techniques for Mark Making

Estimated time: 2-3 hours

• Learn to use pencils, pens, charcoal, and brushes for varied mark effects
• Experiment with different drawing materials and their expressive potential
• Study how tools interact with paper surfaces to create texture
• Discover how to develop a personal mark-making style through material exploration

Module 3: Applying Dynamic Marks to Structure

Estimated time: 2-3 hours

• Use dynamic marks to enhance the structure of forms and objects
• Combine mark making with traditional drawing techniques for realism
• Build volume and depth using expressive lines and shading

Module 4: Mark Making in Figure & Gesture Drawing

Estimated time: 2-3 hours

• Incorporate dynamic marks into figure drawing for energy and motion
• Use quick, expressive lines to capture gesture and rhythm
• Enhance figure drawings with life and movement through mark variation

Module 5: Mark Making in Still Life & Landscapes

Estimated time: 2-3 hours

• Apply dynamic marks to still life compositions for texture and detail
• Evoke atmosphere, depth, and space in landscape drawings
• Create volume, light, and shadow using expressive mark techniques

Module 6: Final Project

Estimated time: 3-4 hours

• Create a dynamic drawing combining all learned mark-making techniques
• Experiment with tools and materials to express movement and depth
• Refine your artwork based on feedback and personal evaluation

Prerequisites

• Basic familiarity with drawing tools
• No prior art experience required
• Openness to experimentation and creative exploration

What You'll Be Able to Do After

• Understand the role of dynamic mark making in drawing to create energy, texture, and movement
• Use different tools and materials to create varied marks and lines
• Apply mark making techniques to enhance form, depth, and expression
• Incorporate dynamic lines and marks to bring life to still life, figures, and landscapes
• Gain confidence in experimenting with mark-making techniques for expressive artwork