Entering the venue opened up a series of disarming moments. Walls filled with skillfully drawn pictures, the sweet scent of flower fields and soothing music playing unevasively in the background. You’d think you had just stepped into a spa or a fancy dinner party. Except it was not. It was a sketching workshop and, very apparently, not just any kind of sketching workshop. Aside from providing a venue (Artellano 11) and all the materials necessary, OTT Studio, the organizers of this event entitled Bodies & Gestures, wanted a workshop that awakened all the senses in order to bring every student into the proper and most ideal mood for drawing. As one of those privileged students, I must say that it absolutely worked.
Arthur Tselishchev is the talented artist who conducted the workshop that day. Aside from being an artist, he is also an interior designer, a professional DJ, model and fashion photographer. His wide array of art expression may very well explain why fullness of experience is important to him as observed in this particular event. Art engages all the senses.
During the workshop proper, Arthur taught us and demonstrated to us the fundamentals of sketching. He shared tips and techniques on how to capture movement and gestures. It was very practical and hands-on. We were almost immediately set out to draw with the help of live models before us. He also made sure to take a look at everyone’s work to correct, give pointers and encourage.
It was quite an exhilarating experience. Having a model to draw right on the spot, learning in a group setting and even the time limit given us per exercise really put me in the zone and I enjoyed every minute of it. Instead of feeling intimidated or overwhelmed as I usually do when drawing people, I was quite at ease and disposed to the flow of things.
I think having the atmosphere set up so thoughtfully beforehand made it easy for everyone to get into the zone regardless of each one’s drawing background or skill level. In fact, a good number of us who were there were only beginners. But you could really see how everyone’s work progressed and improved throughout the class. We were set up for success!
What a privilege it was to have been part of this event! It was a very enriching experience and I would totally recommend it to anyone who wants to try out sketching.
Big thanks to OTT Studio for having me and to all the wonderful partner brands who helped make this event a success — Omartisan Fragrances, Artelano 11, Kalipayan Farm, Silcafe, Don Papa Rum, The Henry Hotel, and The Crafty Cat.
Follow @weareOTT for future workshops and events.
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