The Wild Figure: Plein Air and the Human Form - September

DESCRIPTION
Join artist C.W. Sawyer for a full-day, off-road plein air adventure in figure drawing and painting—where light, landscape, and the human form come together in a dynamic outdoor setting. This is a guided figure drawing experience designed for advanced figure painters, though brave beginners are absolutely welcome.

You will begin the day with a live model and a fast-paced series of short poses—starting with 5-minute gestures and gradually building to 20-minute studies. Sawyer will lead a morning demo and discussion on gesture: what it means, why it matters, and how it builds the foundation for expressive, responsive work. The focus is on capturing light, motion, and energy.

After a midday break (yes, bathrooms are available!), everyone shifts gears. As the sun changes position, the workshop will move into a sustained, long pose for the afternoon. Sawyer will offer a short lecture on translating morning sketches into a finished alla prima painting—covering concepts like focal points, compositional strategy, and the “envelope of light.” You'll receive individualized feedback as you develop your own full-scale figure piece.

Plein air beware: This is a true outdoor experience—no sidewalks or patios in sight—so come prepared with your own plein air setup and a spirit of adventure. All mediums are welcome, and students are encouraged to bring gouache paints if they would like to follow along with the instructor.

SUPPLY INFORMATION
Students should bring:

• A sketchbook and pen

Please bring anything you’d like to stay comfortable outdoors: a hat, blanket or beach chair, walking shoes, and any snacks or water you might need.

COURSE DETAILS
After registration, course details are available via the Northwind Art School learning portal. Learn more

ABOUT SAWYER
C.W. Sawyer is a classically trained artist who studied at the Gage Academy of Art in Seattle, where he apprenticed under renowned realist painter Mark Kang O’Higgins. Grounded in traditional techniques with charcoal and oil, Sawyer has spent the past decade exploring the country as a travel painter, working primarily in gouache. His work reflects a deep commitment to observational rigor and expressive clarity.

Sawyer believes that formal training is not an end in itself, but a tool—a way to build the technical foundation that allows an authentic artistic voice to emerge. His teaching emphasizes both structure and discovery, inviting students to develop their skills while also listening for the creative impulse within.

See more: Other courses taught by Sawyer
Artist website: C.W. Sawyer

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DISCOUNTS
This course is eligible for a 10% member discount at the Supporter level and beyond. Get a membership today!

Don's Pharmacy and Art Toolkit in Port Townsend offer Northwind Art School students a 10% discount on art supplies.

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CANCELLATION POLICY
If Northwind Art has to cancel a course for any reason, all enrolled students will receive a 100% refund (including any materials fee).

Students who withdraw from a course at least seven days prior to its first meeting will receive a 90% refund (less any materials fee). 

Students withdrawing fewer than seven days from the first day of class are not eligible for a refund except in the case of illness or injury, in which case they are eligible to receive a 40% refund (less any materials fee).

Please note that 10% of every course registration fee is considered to be a non-refundable deposit in cases of withdrawal to cover administrative overhead. All refunds will be applied to the same credit card that was used for enrollment. No credits or transfers will be granted. 

Please email admin@northwindart.org if you wish to withdraw or for more information.