Author: Glenn Vilppu
The Traditional Illustration course, instructed by Toon Vugts, provides a comprehensive foundation in classical illustration techniques, drawing upon the methodologies of Kimon Nicolaides and Glenn Vilppu.
Participants will engage in rigorous observational drawing practices using live models, still-life compositions (nature morte), and various reference materials. The course emphasizes the development of confident draftsmanship, a nuanced understanding of gesture and anatomy, and the capacity to draw with expressive intent. These are considered core competencies within the discipline of professional illustration.
Beyond technical proficiency, the course fosters creative inquiry and personal artistic growth. Students are encouraged to experiment with different methods and materials, refine their visual language, and cultivate a distinctive artistic voice.
Requirements for Participation
Applicants are expected to have completed secondary education and possess sufficient proficiency in English.
Course Schedule
Day 1:
- Presentation: Introduction and portfolio review
- Nature Morte: Still life drawing; focus on shape, perspective, and composition
- Materials: paper, graphite, charcoal, pencils
- Homework: one 10-minute drawing in sketchbook
Day 2:
- Presentations: Historical and Contemporary Illustration; Step-by-step approach from briefing to finished illustration
- Nature Morte: Still life drawing; focus on shape, perspective, and composition
- Materials: paper, graphite, charcoal, pencils
- Homework: one 10-minute drawing in sketchbook
Day 3:
- Illustration assignment and briefing: Editorial Illustration I
- Reference drawing: focus on the human figure
- Materials: reference pictures, tracing paper, pencils
- Homework: three concept and thumbnail sketches + one 10-minute drawing in sketchbook
Day 4:
- Evaluation of homework and sketches for Editorial Illustration I
- Female model drawing: focus on gesture
- Materials: min. A3 paper, graphite, charcoal, pencils
- Homework: one 10-minute drawing in sketchbook
Day 5:
- Evaluation of homework and finished assignment for Editorial Illustration I
- Male model drawing: focus on anatomy
- Materials: min. A3 paper, graphite, charcoal, pencils
- Homework: one 10-minute drawing in sketchbook
Day 6:
- Illustration assignment and briefing: Editorial Illustration II / News Article
- Presentation: How to select works for your portfolio or website
- Concept and thumbnail development during class. Deadline: 24:00 (submit by email)
- Materials: sketchbook, materials of choice
- Homework: one 10-minute drawing in sketchbook
Day 7:
- Evaluation of Editorial Illustration II / News Article assignment
- Briefing: Personal Portfolio Assignment
- Male portrait drawing: focus on portrait drawing
- Materials: min. A3 paper, graphite, charcoal, pencils
- Homework: three concept and thumbnail sketches + one 10-minute drawing in sketchbook
Day 8:
- Evaluation of homework and presentation of Personal Portfolio Assignment sketches
- Female portrait drawing: focus on portrait drawing
- Materials: min. A3 paper, graphite, charcoal, pencils
- Homework: continue working on Personal Portfolio Assignment + one 10-minute drawing in sketchbook
Day 9:
- Evaluation of homework and presentation of Personal Portfolio Assignment
- Portfolio presentation
Learning Outcomes
In addition to drawing instruction, students will learn how to:
- Work independently and self-direct projects
- Value and price their work appropriately
- Acquire and communicate with clients
- Promote their work professionally
- Issue invoices and navigate basic business practices
Assessment
The course concludes with an assessment. To pass the course, participants must attend at least 75% of the contact sessions. The assessment consists of presenting the personal portfolio developed during the course and receiving feedback. Upon successful completion and submission of written feedback, a continuing education certificate from the Estonian Academy of Arts will be issued.
Instructor
Toon Vugts is a freelance illustrator and designer. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Illustration and Concept Development from WDKA Art Academy in Rotterdam in 2000 and a Master’s degree in Experience Design from Design Academy Eindhoven in 2002. He has worked as an art teacher at St. Michael’s School and as a designer at San Korpus JWT, as well as a creative director at TERAS Sports Center.
www.drinkandraw.ee
Time: March 5 – May 7, 2026, Thursdays, 18:00–21:00 (except April 16)
Location: Põhja pst 7, Tallinn, Estonian Academy of Arts, Room A306
Volume: 36 academic hours of contact learning and 16 hours of independent work (2 ECTS)
Curriculum Group: Visual Arts and Art History
Group Size: 9–10 participants
Additional Information: koolitus@artun.ee, +372 5919 9496
Registration Deadline: February 26, or until spots are filled
Fee: 460 €
If you register before February 19, it is possible to pay in two payments: 220 € upon registration, followed by 240 € by February 24.