XDWG1002 Observational Drawing | Otis College Extension

Course Description

Discover how to approach drawing as an act of careful observation rather than mechanical replication. Students learn to set aside assumptions about what they think they see and instead draw from direct visual experience, building the foundation for strong observational skills and confident artistic decision-making. Beginning with line, shape, negative space, and value, students develop core techniques for accurately translating three-dimensional forms onto the page. Through studies of texture, still life, and increasingly complex subjects, the course emphasizes visual analysis, spatial awareness, and light. By the end of the course, students will apply these foundational skills to drawing, strengthening both technical ability and personal artistic expression.

Note(s):

This course does not provide certificate credit.

Enroll Now - Select a section to enroll in

XDWG1002 - 001

Extension Fall 2026

Onsite

Available

Observational Drawing

Workshop

1:30PM to 4:30PM

Oct 24, 2026 to Nov 14, 2026

Schedule and Location

View Details

12.0

Main Campus

Onsite

Tuition non-credit

$275.00

1.2 CEUs

Materials List

Link to the Course Requirements and Materials List.

Section Notes

Students must be 18+ years of age to enroll.
All times are listed for Pacific Daylight Time (PDT).
Course teaching method: On-Campus
Please refer to our policies page for COVID Safety guidelines and additional campus-specific information on our Policies page.
Course details subject to change. After registering for a course, visit your Extension Portal to view the information you will need to know about your course(s) including materials list, classroom details, online resource links, etc. Be sure to check your Student Portal regularly for course updates and changes.
This course does not provide certificate credit.
Note: Instructions on how to access course content are sent out in the 24-48 hours before a class begins. If you register for a class less than 24 hours in advance, please reach out to the Extension office at 310-665-6850 or extension@otis.edu. The Extension office is open M-F from 8:30 am - 5:00 pm. Students who register within 24 hours before the first class meeting may experience a delay in accessing the course.