General
What is taught at DARA?
The Dutch Atelier of Realist Art is dedicated to teaching figurative drawing and painting in the European academic tradition, with an emphasis on working from observation (meaning, directly from life - not photos.) Our courses are centered around building a strong technical foundation in the fine arts, to better empower artists to explore their creative vision to the fullest potential.
Will I learn to draw / paint from photos?
No, copying from photos is not in line with DARA's philosophy or general approach to teaching. In our Trimester Programme and Drawing Bootcamp, students either work from direct real-life observation, or from a reproduction of a master's work.
This generally also applies to our workshop programme, although some visiting instructors may discuss their personal approach to using photo references. The only workshop on our 2025 roster which utilizes photos in some capacity is Painting the Invented Landscape with Ryan Brown. Ryan will be teaching strategies to compile different photo references and sketches to design your own landscape, not how to copy from the pictures directly.
This generally also applies to our workshop programme, although some visiting instructors may discuss their personal approach to using photo references. The only workshop on our 2025 roster which utilizes photos in some capacity is Painting the Invented Landscape with Ryan Brown. Ryan will be teaching strategies to compile different photo references and sketches to design your own landscape, not how to copy from the pictures directly.
Does DARA teach the sight-size method?
In general, no. Our stance on the sight-size method is that it can have some limited benefits for beginners, but we consider other methods more useful.
Classes conducted from live models are always taught using comparative measurements, and emphasize constructive anatomy.
For some foundation-level courses, such as Introduction to Classical Drawing in our Trimester Programme, students do work at a 1:1 scale with the reference, but not using the sight-size method. We approach drawing by starting with freehand sketches (drawing by eye alone) before checking measurements, and conceptualizing forms into simple primitives rather than rote copying of outer contour lines and shadow shapes.
Some visiting artists teaching workshops do occasionally use the sight-size method in their own classes, and whenever this is the case, it is always indicated on the workshop page.
Classes conducted from live models are always taught using comparative measurements, and emphasize constructive anatomy.
For some foundation-level courses, such as Introduction to Classical Drawing in our Trimester Programme, students do work at a 1:1 scale with the reference, but not using the sight-size method. We approach drawing by starting with freehand sketches (drawing by eye alone) before checking measurements, and conceptualizing forms into simple primitives rather than rote copying of outer contour lines and shadow shapes.
Some visiting artists teaching workshops do occasionally use the sight-size method in their own classes, and whenever this is the case, it is always indicated on the workshop page.
Can students of any age apply?
Classes are open to students ages 12 and up. Mature and respectful conduct, along with a serious commitment to learn, is expected from students of any age in order to participate.
Students under 18 years old: DARA must receive written permission from your parent or legal guardian in order for you to enroll. Please be advised that some classes may contain nudity (either models who pose nude, or copying after master works which depict nudity.) Maturity and professionalism is expected from all students.
Students under 18 years old: DARA must receive written permission from your parent or legal guardian in order for you to enroll. Please be advised that some classes may contain nudity (either models who pose nude, or copying after master works which depict nudity.) Maturity and professionalism is expected from all students.
Which languages are used in class?
English is the main language spoken for group discussions / demonstrations / lectures / etc. When individual feedback is offered in Dutch or other languages, this is indicated on the course page. Basic fluency in English is needed to participate in courses.
Does DARA offer any online courses?
All courses are instructed in person at our studio. We do not have any plans to offer online classes at this time.
Do I receive a certificate after completing a course?
If you require a certificate of course completion, please contact the office. Note that there are some requirements:
- At a minimum, an attendance rate of 80% or more is required for a certificate to be issued;
- In our Trimester Programme, each course is divided into modules. You must have fulfilled the minimum requirements of completion within your current module (this is outlined at the start of each trimester.)
Can I bring my pet to the studio?
No, pets are not allowed. If you have a working service animal, please indicate this in your application form, or otherwise contact us ahead of time.
Can I bring my friend or family member to class?
No, classes are only open to registered students. In order to maintain a comfortable, safe, and focused class environment for all of our students, instructors, and models, we do not permit non-registered guests to join lessons.
If someone will drop you off and/or pick you up from class, he or she is kindly requested to stay in the entrance / lounge area while classes are in session.
If someone will drop you off and/or pick you up from class, he or she is kindly requested to stay in the entrance / lounge area while classes are in session.
Applications
How do I apply?
All applications are submitted online. This can be done by selecting the study programme that interests you, and then clicking on a course thumbnail. If applications are currently open for this course, an "Apply Now" button will appear near the top of the screen, which will direct you to our online application form.
Personal information entered in the application includes the following:
Personal information entered in the application includes the following:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Current address
- Telephone number
- E-mail address
- Name and telephone number of the person we should notify on your behalf in case of an emergency at the studio
- Previous relevant education or training you completed
- Self-assessment of your technical skills in traditional drawing and painting media
- Examples of your recent drawings and/or paintings
- Any relevant medical information that the studio needs to know (for example, if you have poor eyesight and are enrolling in a model class, we can ensure that you are always stationed close to the model stage)
- (Workshops only) Allergies or other dietary restrictions that DARA must accommodate when serving meals
Why am I seeing an error message when I try to upload images of my work to my application?
An error message will be returned if image files are too large. Images must be 3MB or smaller.
I submitted an application. How do I know if DARA received it?
An automated confirmation email is sent to you when your application is submitted. If you do not see this message in your inbox, please check your Junk/Spam folder in case it was filtered there.
If you did not receive any confirmation email at all, then DARA did not receive your application. Please ensure that you enter your correct email address when submitting your information.
If you did not receive any confirmation email at all, then DARA did not receive your application. Please ensure that you enter your correct email address when submitting your information.
How long will it take to hear if I am accepted into a class or not?
Applications are reviewed and responded to within 5 working days, though we do our best to respond sooner if possible. Please check your Junk / Spam folder if you do not see a reply from us within this time frame.
I received an acceptance letter. Is there anything else I have to do?
- Review all your acceptance documents. You should have received an acceptance letter, schedule, materials list, and a bill for tuition fees. Please review these materials thoroughly so that you are fully prepared for class.
- Reserve your place. Your bill indicates the dates when each installment of tuition fees must be paid in order to reserve your place in the class.
- Check the materials list. Allow yourself enough time to secure any items you need before the course starts.
- Add the studio's email to your safe sender list. Important announcements and other correspondence from DARA are sent by email, please ensure that you are able to receive it.
- Do you live outside of the Netherlands? Check whether you need a visa before traveling to the Netherlands. If so, it is advised that you file your application at the appropriate Dutch Embassy or Consular Office as early as possible.
- Keep the studio updated if any of your important information changes.
- Prepare to arrive to the first lesson on time and with the correct materials.
Payments
How much does tuition cost, and what is included?
Please visit our Tuition Fees page for current fees for all study programmes.
Tuition fees always include:
For most courses, the expectation is that students will supply their own drawing and painting materials. If any materials are included with the tuition fee, this will be indicated on the materials list.
Tuition fees are subject to annual increase.
Tuition fees always include:
- Storage space for artwork and supplies for the duration of the course;
- Easels, stools, and drawing boards;
- Live model fees;
- Coffee, tea, and light refreshments served during all hours;
- (Workshops Only) Complimentary light lunch served daily;
- (Workshops Only) End-of-workshop borrel (light drinks & snacks) on the final evening of lessons.
For most courses, the expectation is that students will supply their own drawing and painting materials. If any materials are included with the tuition fee, this will be indicated on the materials list.
Tuition fees are subject to annual increase.
When is the deadline to pay for a course?
If you are accepted when there are more than 45 days before the start of the course:
In this case, a deposit payment is due within 14 days of your acceptance in order to keep your space reserved in the class. The options available for a deposit are:
Otherwise:
The full cost of tuition is due 4 weeks before the start of course / trimester. If this date has already passed, then the payment is due within 5 working days of your acceptance. Tuition fees must be paid in full before the first day of lessons in order to participate.
In this case, a deposit payment is due within 14 days of your acceptance in order to keep your space reserved in the class. The options available for a deposit are:
- Paying half of the tuition fee as a deposit. The second half is due 4 weeks before the start of the course / trimester. This option is always available.
- Paying in 4 to 6 monthly installments. This option may not be available for some workshops - please check the pro-forma invoice sent by DARA to see what payment plans are available.
Otherwise:
The full cost of tuition is due 4 weeks before the start of course / trimester. If this date has already passed, then the payment is due within 5 working days of your acceptance. Tuition fees must be paid in full before the first day of lessons in order to participate.
What happens if I do not pay by the deadline?
If your initial deposit was not paid in time: This is considered a cancellation, and DARA is no longer keeping your space on hold. If the course already has a waiting list, DARA will offer the space to someone on the wait list immediately. If there is not a waiting list and you decide later that you want to join the course, you are still welcome to do so if places remain available, but DARA is not able to guarantee availability.
If you paid a deposit, but you are late with paying the outstanding balance: There is a late fee of €40,- per week if the overdue payment is not settled within 5 working days. If the course has a waiting list, and your overdue tuition fees are not settled within 5 working days, DARA reserves the right to refund your deposit to you and offer the space in the class to someone on the wait list instead.
If you paid a deposit, but you are late with paying the outstanding balance: There is a late fee of €40,- per week if the overdue payment is not settled within 5 working days. If the course has a waiting list, and your overdue tuition fees are not settled within 5 working days, DARA reserves the right to refund your deposit to you and offer the space in the class to someone on the wait list instead.
What is DARA's refund policy?
- "Cool-off" Period
* "Initial tuition payment" means the first payment you made towards the course fee, regardless of the chosen payment plan.
** If the course already started and your cancellation falls within the "cool-off" period, then you are still required to pay the total cost of services rendered. This is calculated by the number of lessons that were completed at the time of your cancellation, regardless of whether or not you attended. The remaining balance is refunded.
- Full Refund
> Drawing Bootcamps: You cancel more than 8 weeks before the start of the course.
> Workshops: You cancel more than 6 months before the start of the workshop.*
* Why 6 months? There are significant expenses / efforts involved in coordinating the visiting artist's travel, accommodation, etc. and so we need to know well in advance if the workshop has sufficient student numbers to run.
- Partial Refund*:
- Cancelling fewer than 4 weeks before the start of the course*:
* When does DARA make an exception? DARA will waive our standard policy and refund you in full if another student is available to take your space before the course starts. We will do our best to make this happen, but cannot guarantee that this will always be possible. If your space is not filled by someone else before the course starts, then our standard policy written above applies.
- No Refund
What discounts or other financial aid is available for students?
Please visit our Financial Aid page for more information about subsidies and offers available for your study programme of interest.
Course Materials
What materials do I need to bring to class?
Easels, stools, and drawing boards are always provided. Any other supplies needed to participate in class are stated on the course page, under the "Materials" section. This list is also provided in PDF format upon acceptance.
Where can I buy art supplies?
We have a small store space in the studio with some supplies for sale. Students receive a list which indicates which items we currently have in stock.
For all other items, students receive a list of suggested art supply stores in Haarlem and surrounding cities where items can be purchased.
For all other items, students receive a list of suggested art supply stores in Haarlem and surrounding cities where items can be purchased.
Why are items like brushes, pencils, etc. not provided with the class?
- DARA offers vocational training for artists seeking professional development, or otherwise pursuing drawing and painting at a serious level. At this level of training, it is expected that students already own materials like oil paints, brushes, etc. and will continue to use these tools after the course ends.
- Communal supplies are not always handled properly or with care. When your supplies belong to you, it is more likely that they will be handled correctly.
- Some items are subjective. Which brand of paints or brushes you prefer, the type/shape of palette that works best for you, etc. are down to personal taste.
Can I substitute an item on the materials list with something else?
Consult with the studio first, before the start of the course.
Can DARA purchase supplies for me to pick up at the studio later?
If there is an item you would like to purchase at our studio, we can place it on reserve for you. Otherwise, we cannot place an order on your behalf at another art store.
Can I keep my drawing and painting supplies stored at DARA?
Yes, during the course / trimester. All students are given a designated storage space to keep supplies, drawings, and paintings for the duration of the term.
When the course is over / your enrollment period ends, you must take your belongings home with you or pay a fee to have your belongings shipped to you. Our space is limited. We do not agree to store items for anyone other than currently registered students, and we accept no responsibility for anything left in our building once a student's enrollment period ends. Please be respectful and do not treat our studio as if it should be a free storage facility.
When the course is over / your enrollment period ends, you must take your belongings home with you or pay a fee to have your belongings shipped to you. Our space is limited. We do not agree to store items for anyone other than currently registered students, and we accept no responsibility for anything left in our building once a student's enrollment period ends. Please be respectful and do not treat our studio as if it should be a free storage facility.
Travel to DARA
Can I park my car at the studio?
Yes. On Zuider Emmakade, the street where DARA is located, there is 24/7 free parking.
For more info, click here to see which areas in Haarlem are in paid parking zones, and where you may park for free.
For more info, click here to see which areas in Haarlem are in paid parking zones, and where you may park for free.
What is the easiest way to reach DARA by public transport?
Nearest bus stops / train connections:
Visit Connexxion for up to date info about bus routes & schedules.
Are you visiting DARA from abroad? Please note that bus drivers here do not accept cash for bus fare. It's advisable to purchase your ticket in advance of your trip, or be prepared to pay the driver with a card. At the bus stop, stick out your hand as the bus is approaching to indicate to the driver that you want to board.
- Haarlem Schouwtjesbrug (lines 80, 680) 3-4 minute walk to DARA, connection to Heemstede-Aerdenhout station;
- Haarlem Florapark (lines 50, 250) 8 minute walk to DARA, connection to Haarlem station;
- Haarlem Centrum/Houtplein (lines 3, 50, 80, 346, 356) 14 minute walk to DARA, connections to Haarlem station & Heemstede-Aerdenhout station
Visit Connexxion for up to date info about bus routes & schedules.
Are you visiting DARA from abroad? Please note that bus drivers here do not accept cash for bus fare. It's advisable to purchase your ticket in advance of your trip, or be prepared to pay the driver with a card. At the bus stop, stick out your hand as the bus is approaching to indicate to the driver that you want to board.
I live outside of the EU / EEA / Switzerland. What do I need to know before I apply?
- Do you need a visa?
Check whether you need a VKV here.
- Plan ahead if you need a VKV (Short Stay Visa)
Further, it may take time to book an appointment and gather all necessary documents to support your application, such as proof of accommodation during your stay. You can view all required documentation here.
It is therefore advised that you plan ahead, and are prepared to apply for the visa as early as possible.
- Travel requirements for visa-exempt nationals
In the future, however, please note that there are new travel requirements which are planned to be implemented in 2025. This is known as the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS). Once implemented, travellers will need to apply for ETIAS prior to arrival in the European Union. ETIAS will be linked to your passport and is valid for three years (or until your passport expires), and travellers will be able to apply online for a fee of €7.
At the time of this writing (March 2025), ETIAS is not in operation and there is not yet a fixed date as to when it will begin. Please visit the official ETIAS website for up-to-date information.
- Study duration
Unless you have legal residency status in the Netherlands through your work or relationship with Dutch citizen or permanent resident, there is unfortunately no circumstance in which you can attain a long-term visa to study at DARA at this time. If you are planning on applying for multiple courses, or otherwise combining your study at DARA with a longer trip in Europe, you must ensure that your travel dates are within the maximum legal duration of 90 days out of a 180-day period.
Can DARA help me with obtaining a visa?
The only type of visa that students are currently able to attain for study at DARA is a short stay visa, or VKV in Dutch (visum kort verblijf.)
The VKV must be applied for by you personally at the appropriate Dutch Embassy or Consular Office in your country of residence. DARA cannot apply for this type of visa on your behalf, however we can provide documentation certifying your enrollment in our courses to support your application.
The VKV must be applied for by you personally at the appropriate Dutch Embassy or Consular Office in your country of residence. DARA cannot apply for this type of visa on your behalf, however we can provide documentation certifying your enrollment in our courses to support your application.
What accommodation is available for students traveling from far?
Accommodation is not provided by DARA, and students are responsible for organizing accommodation during their stay. Our recommendations:
Hotels Nearest to DARA
Hotels Near the Train Station
A stone's throw from Haarlem Station:
Hotels in Haarlem Centrum
Located in the historic center of Haarlem, near the Frans Hals Museum and Teylers Museum:
Hostels
Short Term RentalsYou might also check housing groups on Facebook in Haarlem and surrounding areas. More information about rental contracts and tenants rights in the Netherlands can be found here.
Hotels Nearest to DARA
- The Niu Dairy - most economical rates
- Hotel Raecks
- Boutique Hotel 't Vosje
- Carlton Square Hotel Haarlem
Hotels Near the Train Station
A stone's throw from Haarlem Station:
Hotels in Haarlem Centrum
Located in the historic center of Haarlem, near the Frans Hals Museum and Teylers Museum:
Hostels
Short Term RentalsYou might also check housing groups on Facebook in Haarlem and surrounding areas. More information about rental contracts and tenants rights in the Netherlands can be found here.
What if I cannot transport wet paintings home at the end of a course?
Trimester Programme: There are designated days at the end of each trimester when your work and belongings need to be picked up from the studio. This information is indicated to everyone before the trimester begins. If you are unable to take a wet painting, etc. home at this time, you must consult with the office before the trimester ends to see if other arrangements are possible.
Short Courses (Workshops / Bootcamps): If you are unable to take your paintings (or other items) home with you at the end of the course, DARA can ship your belongings to you for a fee. We use PostNL for all shipments (both domestic and abroad). Shipping costs are at the student's expense, and can be calculated here.
* Liability: PostNL offers insured delivery for both domestic and international shipments, which compensates up to 5500 EUR in the event of damage or loss. Insuring the package is at the student’s expense.
Short Courses (Workshops / Bootcamps): If you are unable to take your paintings (or other items) home with you at the end of the course, DARA can ship your belongings to you for a fee. We use PostNL for all shipments (both domestic and abroad). Shipping costs are at the student's expense, and can be calculated here.
- Before the end of the course, let a member of staff know that you would like your belongings to be shipped to you. A waiver of liability must be signed, which states that DARA only retains responsibility of your belongings while they are stored in our care; we are not financially responsible if the package is lost or damaged during transit.*
- At the studio, we will weigh and measure your items. A staff member will help you to print a shipping label on the PostNL website, which will requires you to submit a list of the weight, dimensions, and estimated value of all items if you are shipping outside of the country. Here, you will input your delivery address, contact details, and pay PostNL's shipping fee.
- DARA charges an additional service cost per package, which covers the cost of packing materials, labor, and transport to a shipping facility. Rates start from €25 for small parcels, and increase to €35 for medium and large parcels. (Check PostNL parcel sizes here.)
- Shipments are sent out on the last weekend of every month. If your shipment includes a painting which is still wet, your shipment will be rolled over to the next month.
* Liability: PostNL offers insured delivery for both domestic and international shipments, which compensates up to 5500 EUR in the event of damage or loss. Insuring the package is at the student’s expense.
Trimester Programme
Who is the Trimester Programme most suited for, and what is the recommended level to enroll?
The Trimester Programme is (currently) DARA's main academic training programme in traditional drawing and painting. This study is intended for artists who are seeking vocational training to either enter a profession in the fine arts, or expand their professional skillset. Students who have a strong passion for studying the arts, yet may not wish to turn it into a career, are also suitable for enrollment.
Trimester courses require patience and long-term, consistent dedication. This programme is about pushing students to achieve technical excellence in traditional drawing and painting, which we believe serves as the backdrop for creative development. In some courses, you can expect to spend 40-60 hours on a single drawing or painting. If that sounds off-putting, this programme will not be the right fit. But if you're like us, and an environment of serious academic study with likeminded artists is just what you are looking for: welcome!
Trimester courses are accessible for a range of skill levels, including beginners. Please refer to the class requirements on each course page to see if the class level is right for you.
Trimester courses require patience and long-term, consistent dedication. This programme is about pushing students to achieve technical excellence in traditional drawing and painting, which we believe serves as the backdrop for creative development. In some courses, you can expect to spend 40-60 hours on a single drawing or painting. If that sounds off-putting, this programme will not be the right fit. But if you're like us, and an environment of serious academic study with likeminded artists is just what you are looking for: welcome!
Trimester courses are accessible for a range of skill levels, including beginners. Please refer to the class requirements on each course page to see if the class level is right for you.
When is the Trimester Programme scheduled?
Classes are scheduled on a basis of 11-week trimesters during the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. New students can begin at the start of any trimester. Please check the application schedule on the sidebar of the Part-Time Programme page to see when to apply for the trimester you wish to start.
Where should I start? Can I enroll in any class I want?
Some courses have pre-requisites which students need to meet to be considered eligible to enroll. This is indicated on the course page. We determine eligibility based on the demonstrated skill in the work uploaded in your application, how well this demonstrated technical ability correlates with your self-assessment of skills, and your stated reasons for study.
Students who do not have a prior background in academic fine arts study should begin with Introduction to Classical Drawing. Other courses which may be suitable are Cast Drawing and Model Drawing: Short Pose, for students who are new to DARA, but have a basis in technical drawing ability.
Students who do not have a prior background in academic fine arts study should begin with Introduction to Classical Drawing. Other courses which may be suitable are Cast Drawing and Model Drawing: Short Pose, for students who are new to DARA, but have a basis in technical drawing ability.
Some courses say the programme duration lasts multiple trimesters. What does that mean?
Almost all courses in our Trimester Programme are designed so that students who enroll for multiple trimesters will progress to assignments of increasing complexity. In each course description, a general estimate of how many trimesters it will take to complete the full curriculum is indicated.
Note that this is only an estimate. Students advance through a programme by completing work up to the studio's standards, and this could take more or less time than what is estimated depending on each student's level of skill and prior experience.
Note that this is only an estimate. Students advance through a programme by completing work up to the studio's standards, and this could take more or less time than what is estimated depending on each student's level of skill and prior experience.
If I miss some classes during the trimester, can I make them up later?
Students who are absent may book a studio pass to work uninstructed at DARA outside of class hours. Please note, however, that absences during the trimester are not refunded, and will not be made up in a private lesson at the instructor's expense.
It is expected that students will maintain an attendance rate of at least 80% during the trimester. If you know ahead of time that this will not be feasible for you, please refrain from applying.
It is expected that students will maintain an attendance rate of at least 80% during the trimester. If you know ahead of time that this will not be feasible for you, please refrain from applying.
If I withdraw from the class in the middle of the trimester, do I receive credit to take the course later?
No, there are no refunds or credits to other classes when a student withdraws after the trimester has started. We strongly encourage you to be sure that you are interested in DARA's teaching methods and are able to attend the full trimester before enrolling.
Workshops
Who are workshops most suited for, and what is the recommended level to take a workshop?
Workshops at DARA are vocational training intended for continued professional development in the fine arts.
These intensive courses are intended for artists who are training to either enter a profession in the fine arts, or expand their professional skillset. Students who have a strong passion for studying the arts, yet may not wish to turn it into a career, are also suitable for enrollment.
As a general rule of thumb, you will benefit most from a workshop if you already have a good grasp of traditional drawing and painting basics. If you have a passion for art, but you are a beginner who is just getting started, our drawing bootcamps are a better fit.
These intensive courses are intended for artists who are training to either enter a profession in the fine arts, or expand their professional skillset. Students who have a strong passion for studying the arts, yet may not wish to turn it into a career, are also suitable for enrollment.
As a general rule of thumb, you will benefit most from a workshop if you already have a good grasp of traditional drawing and painting basics. If you have a passion for art, but you are a beginner who is just getting started, our drawing bootcamps are a better fit.
When are workshops scheduled?
Most workshops are scheduled from late spring to early fall. At the moment, we typically do not run any workshops during the late fall and winter.
Standard class hours are 9:30 to 16:30, with a lunch break from 12:30 to 13:30.
Standard class hours are 9:30 to 16:30, with a lunch break from 12:30 to 13:30.
Will a workshop offered at DARA this year also be available to take next year?
We cannot make any guarantees that workshops led by visiting instructors will be offered again the following year.
When will DARA announce the workshop schedule for next year?
The workshop schedule for the next upcoming year is published in autumn. We generally do our best to publish the course roster in October or November, though organizing each year's programme and coordinating instructor schedules takes time, and delays may happen. Patience is appreciated.
Drawing Bootcamp
Who is the Drawing Bootcamp most suited for, and what is the recommended level to enroll?
The Drawing Bootcamp is comprised of short, intensive courses intended to quickly advance students' technical skills in drawing with traditional media. These courses are most suited for beginning- to intermediate-level artists.
If you are curious about DARA, or perhaps considering enrolling in a Trimester but not sure if it's the right fit for you, this is a great option to get started. For current students, the bootcamp is also a great way to keep your skills sharp during the summer break in between trimesters!
If you are curious about DARA, or perhaps considering enrolling in a Trimester but not sure if it's the right fit for you, this is a great option to get started. For current students, the bootcamp is also a great way to keep your skills sharp during the summer break in between trimesters!
When are the bootcamps scheduled?
The Drawing Bootcamp is offered during the summer, in between DARA's spring and fall trimesters. Classes are held during the evenings and weekends.
Are the courses the same each year?
2024 was the first year the bootcamp was introduced, and we are currently developing this programme. New courses may be introduced next year!
Open Model Sketch Sessions
Can anyone participate in an open sketch session?
Sessions with clothed models: Everyone can join (provided that all of DARA's studio rules are followed.)
Sessions with nude models: Participants 18+ may join.
Sessions with nude models: Participants 18+ may join.
How do I sign up?
Navigate to Open Studio > Model Sketch Sessions. Select the sketch group that interests you, and then click the "Join a session" button. Add the calendar date(s) that you wish to join to your cart, then proceed to checkout.
What should I bring?
Easels and drawing boards are provided. You are responsible for bringing all other traditional drawing or painting supplies. Please note that unless you are a current student, you may not leave any of your supplies in the studio afterwards.
How long is each session?
The model poses for 25 minutes at a time, with a break of 5 minutes in between. At the halfway mark, we take a longer break of 10 minutes. The session moderator will set the pose and call the breaks.
Can I take a photo of the model for my personal use?
No, photos of models are not permitted. (If your reason for wishing to take a photo is because you have trouble seeing the model from a distance, please select one of the seated easels stationed next to the model stage.)
Can I bring a friend with me?
You may book 2 (or more) spots in a session for a friend to draw with you, but anyone who is not a registered participant is not allowed to join.
How many poses will the model hold during a session?
This depends on the sketch group, but most of the time, the model holds 1 pose for the full 3 hours.
Do I get a refund if I cancel?
You receive a full refund if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.
Are there any discounts available?
If you book a session when there are more than 48 hours in advance, you receive a €2,50 discount.
When you join your first session, the moderator will give you a sticker card where you can keep track of the number of sessions you have attended. Each session grants you a sticker. After 10 stickers, hand in your card to earn a session completely free!
When you join your first session, the moderator will give you a sticker card where you can keep track of the number of sessions you have attended. Each session grants you a sticker. After 10 stickers, hand in your card to earn a session completely free!
DUTCH ATELIER OF REALIST ART
|