Why might an artist choose to paint herself? When women were still excluded from life classes (it was 1893 before female students were allowed to gaze on a partially draped body at the Royal Academy) it was a case of being ones own best model. The artist turned to herself, familiar and available. Throughout this 5 week drawing and painting class we will discuss and take inspiration from the great female self portrait artists who have shaped the way for contemporary woman painters. This class is suitable for all levels. Whether youre a beginner who is interested in art history and learning the basics of proportion and self portraiture, or whether youre established and would like the space and support to create a more developed and refined self portrait.