The team at City Matters sat down with Harry Parker, Director of Education at the Royal Drawing School and the Deputy Director of the School to talk through the mission, opportunities and the future of the school.
Can you share with us the mission of the Royal Drawing School since it was founded?
The Royal Drawing School was established in 2000 by King Charles III and artist Catherine Goodman, alongside a group of distinguished artists, in response to the diminishing emphasis on observational drawing within art education. The mission was to provide a dedicated space for students to rediscover and refine the art of drawing from observation, complementing the conceptual approaches that were becoming dominant at the time. The School operates on the belief that drawing is a fundamental skill that fosters creativity, communication, and a deeper understanding of the world. Its aim is to make drawing accessible to all, emphasising the importance of continued practice as a means of personal and artistic growth.
What makes the Royal Drawing School unique when it comes to teaching drawing?
The Royal Drawing School takes a distinctive approach to teaching drawing, viewing it both as an end in itself and as a tool for innovation. Its curriculum places a strong emphasis on observational drawing while encouraging creativity and analytical thinking, guided by practising artists who bring their unique perspectives. Rather than adhering to rigid traditional methods, students are encouraged to explore imaginative approaches, from drawing the human figure to incorporating memory, literature, and other references into their work. The focus on constant drawing and seeing the world through fresh perspectives ensures students develop confidence and artistic independence.
How do the different programmes at the Royal Drawing School cater to traditional and more contemporary art?
The Royal Drawing School bridges traditional and contemporary art through its wide range of programmes. While its foundation lies in observational drawing, the School encourages students to experiment with modern techniques and media, such as sculpture, printmaking, and animation, all rooted in drawing. Courses for young artists incorporate recycled materials and readily available resources, reflecting contemporary concerns such as sustainability. This blend of tradition and innovation equips students with the skills and flexibility to explore diverse artistic expressions and practices.
What opportunities are available for students wishing to enrol in the Royal Drawing School?
The Royal Drawing School offers over 350 courses annually, catering to beginners, emerging artists, and professionals. Programmes range from short courses and online classes to the prestigious postgraduate-level scholarship programme, The Drawing Year. Teachers benefit from a 50% discount as part of the School’s mission to promote drawing within education.
Students gain access to a creative community, mentorship from experienced artists, and opportunities to exhibit their work, ensuring a holistic and supportive learning experience.
As the Deputy Director of the School, what is the most rewarding part of your role in shaping the operation of the Royal Drawing School?
Being part of the Royal Drawing School’s dynamic and collaborative environment is immensely rewarding. The opportunity to work with a diverse faculty of over 100 practising artists and to guide thousands of students each year fosters a vibrant exchange of ideas. Witnessing students transform from hesitant beginners to confident artists, equipped with new perspectives and creative tools, is incredibly fulfilling. Seeing individuals discover their artistic voice and become part of the larger creative community is a profound privilege.
Do you have any advice for students and emerging artists wishing to enrol at the Royal Drawing School?
Aspiring students should embrace drawing as a journey of continuous discovery. Don’t be intimidated by technical perfection—focus instead on observation, curiosity, and self-expression. Drawing is about building a relationship with the world around you, so practise regularly and remain open to different approaches. Engage with the School’s creative community, as collaboration and shared experiences will fuel your growth as an artist. Most importantly, take that first step, whether you consider yourself an artist or not—drawing is for everyone.
What do you envision for the future of the Royal Drawing School?
The future of the Royal Drawing School lies in further expanding its accessibility and impact.
With the rise of digital and AI-driven creativity, the School remains committed to preserving the tactile, human essence of drawing. It plans to grow its online offerings to reach more students globally while deepening its presence in schools and communities to nurture the next generation of artists. As drawing continues to connect us with our environment and ourselves, the School envisions being at the forefront of fostering creativity and innovation in a rapidly changing world.
Answer by Zoe Andrews, Graduate Artist from The Drawing Year 2024 and winner of the Christie’s Award.
As the Christie’s Award winner how did the Drawing Year develop your practice and how will it continue through this award?
The Drawing Year has been transformative—a journey where drawing became a language of discovery. Observational drawing taught me to see with fresh eyes, every line a mark of presence. This practice now lives within my ceramics, where drawing fuels the dialogue between fleeting observation and enduring form. The Christie’s Award will allow me to continue this journey, deepening my exploration of form and presence.
Questions compiled by Ivana Syrota.
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