Figure Drawing Classes in Calgary

A figure drawing class teaches you to draw the human form from a live model, with an instructor to guide your eye and give feedback. If you want that structure rather than open studio time, these Calgary providers run figure drawing as classes and courses, from single workshops to multi-week terms. Course lists change each term, so follow each link for the current offerings.

Figure drawing classes in Calgary

  • Atelier Artista
    A skills-based art school where drawing the figure from life is the core of the program, with courses for beginners through advanced students. Visit
  • Swinton's Art Supply
    Runs instructor-led art classes across several studios, including figure drawing, alongside its weekly drop-in. Visit
  • Wildflower Arts Centre
    A City of Calgary arts centre with registered figure drawing programs for adults, offered by term. Visit
  • University of Calgary Continuing Education
    Public, non-credit drawing courses for adults that work from live models. Search the catalogue for current drawing and figure offerings. Visit

Related in Calgary

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For models and artists in Calgary

Most figure sessions and classes in Calgary work with both new and experienced models. Reach out to the organizers directly, or create a free profile so Calgary artists and studios can find you. If you run a session or class that needs a model, you can post it on ArtModels.ca.

Common questions

Figure drawing is drawing the human form, usually from a live model. It covers gesture, proportion, structure, and shading, and it is the foundation most other drawing skills are built on. A figure drawing class teaches those fundamentals in a guided setting.

Yes. Most Calgary providers run beginner courses that start with gesture and proportion before moving on to longer studies and shading. You do not need to draw well to start, since that is what the class is for. If you already have some experience, look for an intermediate or advanced section.

A class is taught. An instructor sets exercises, gives feedback, and the course usually runs over several weeks. A drop-in session is unstructured studio time with a model and no teaching. Take a class to improve with guidance, or a drop-in once you just want time at the easel.

Usually yes for figure work, because the goal is to understand the whole form. Some beginner classes use clothed or costumed poses to ease people in. The course description will tell you which to expect.

A large drawing pad with charcoal, conte, or pencil covers most classes. Some studios provide boards and easels, while others expect you to bring your own. Check the supply list in the course details before the first session.

It depends on the provider and whether you book a single workshop or a multi-week course. We do not publish prices here because they change between terms, so check the current fee on each provider page.

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