Natural Therapies Directory NI

Join the First Saturday Group for a life drawing workshop

What is the First Saturday group?
We are an informal, not-for-profit, group of artists who meet at Maitri Studio on the first Saturday of each month for a life drawing session. The sessions are open to any artist over 16 years old (under 18s must have parental permission). Our session is different from others in that it is the only group in Northern Ireland offering a regular two-model life drawing session, with a view to improving our drawing and observation skills by focusing on the relationships between figures.

Is there a teacher?
The First Saturday session is not normally a taught class but an informal and relaxing opportunity to work on improving your drawing/painting. But if you need some advice or encouragement somebody will always be willing to help. The group has a great mix of experienced artists and beginners, so don't be afraid to ask! The number of participants varies from session to session but there are almost always newcomers amongst the regulars, so please feel welcome to try us out.

What do I need to bring?
We provide chairs, tea/coffee for the break - and of course a subject for you to draw - but please note that you will need to bring your own materials and equipment. (I recommend a drawing board, paper and pencils at least and an easel if you have one). Some folks work in various kinds of paint or mixed media and we have had the occasional sculptor along so you are only limited by your imagination. But we cannot leave any mess on the studio floor so if you wish to paint you must bring a cloth to protect the studio floor.

Where does it happen?
This session will be in the Maple studio on the first floor of Maitri. You need to arrive early enough to get settled and be ready to start by 10am. The door will be locked a the beginning of the drawing session. If you are unavoidably delayed please knock on the door and we will let you in at a convenient juncture.

How much does it cost?
The cost is £20 for the 4 hours with a concession rate (£10) for unwaged. The first half is with one model and shorter poses building up to two-person long poses in the second half

Anything more I should know?
Normal life studio etiquette applies at First Saturday sessions; that is, the privacy and well-being of the models is always our first priority. So as usual, no photography is permitted; tablets and phones etc. must be switched off. Anyone needing to make or take a call must do so outside Maitri.

For more information or to book a place, please email to JRubery@gmail.com

John Rubery