This week’s blog has been written by Mrs Smart, Head of Art and Photography at Bethany School. She writes about the power and purpose of drawing.

Drawing is an incredibly versatile tool in an artist’s toolkit, and its value stretches far beyond the confines of traditional art practice. Whether it’s sketching a simple line, experimenting with new ideas, or meticulously planning a composition, drawing serves multiple purposes.  Drawing is a medium of research, experimentation, planning, and documentation. Through drawing, artists develop their ideas, refine their vision, and bring their concepts to life. Try to explain to an art teacher that you ‘cannot draw’ and you will enthusiastically be reassured that of course you can, once you understand the diversity of what drawing truly is.

Yet, it’s important to remember that drawing is not always easy. For many, the challenge lies in translating what is seen or imagined onto paper. This process demands patience, focus, and a willingness to embrace mistakes as part of the creative journey. The reward? A set of skills that go far beyond improving technique. Drawing encourages problem-solving and critical thinking. Artists must observe, analyse proportions, consider light and shadow, and make countless decisions about form and space—all of which enhance cognitive skills useful in subjects like science, mathematics, and even engineering, just look at Leonardo Da Vinci!

Our recent trip to the Wallace Collection in London highlighted this beautifully. Year 12 and Year 13 art pupils had the privilege of partaking in a ‘sketch’ workshop led by renowned illustrator Luisa Rivera. The session was an inspiring opportunity for our artists to immerse themselves in different styles of drawing, from portraiture to landscapes and even detailed studies of historical armour. Under Rivera’s guidance, pupils explored a range of techniques, drawing inspiration from a portrait by Velasquez, a Venetian landscape by Canaletto, and the intricate details of the Wallace Collection’s armoury. This experience reminded us all that drawing is more than a way to represent the world—it is a way to see and understand it.

These kinds of experiences enrich our students’ appreciation for art, while simultaneously preparing them for a wide range of future pursuits. Whether they go on to study art, architecture, design, or an entirely different field, the skills cultivated through drawing will serve them well.

Drawing is more than a medium of artistic expression; it is a bridge to other disciplines and a vital part of creative and academic development. You can draw, and I would encourage everyone to seek out workshops and events to develop this skill. I highly recommend the company Wild Life Drawing (wildlifedrawing.co.uk/classes) and was blown away by the wonderful wolf drawing workshop that they offered.

Mrs Smart

Head of Art and Photography