Studio Luka – Sydney CBD
“Technique Before Style”
Art space in Sydney CBD dedicated to the appreciation of classical realist art.
If you’d love to learn how to draw and paint in the realistic, representational classical style, we’d be happy to hear from you.
Contact StudioLukaSydney@gmail.com
We can provide systematic set of instructions, with gradual increase of the complexity
Our program offers a carefully structured approach, guiding you step by step as your skills develop and the complexity of the exercises gradually increases.
Technique comes first; once it is mastered, artistic creativity and personal style can truly be expressed. Just as one cannot write a novel without first mastering grammar, an artist cannot create without mastering the fundamentals of their craft.
Construtive Method
The Constructive Method is a classical approach to drawing and painting that focuses on analysing and understanfing of the 3D forms.
- Foundation in Structure – Artists start by understanding the underlying structure of objects or figures before adding details.
- Step-by-Step Construction – Forms are constructed progressively, from simple shapes to detailed, proportionally accurate representations.
- Emphasis on Proportion and Perspective – Accurate measurement, perspective, and spatial relationships are essential.
- Integration of Light and Volume – Once the structure is set, shading and tonal modeling are applied to create a sense of depth and realism.
This method was widely used in classical realism, figure drawing, and architectural studies because it teaches artists to see the world structurally, not just superficially. Now it is almost forgotten.
Systematic, Structured Approach
Our program offers a well-structured system withgradual progression, moving from simple forms to more complex compositions.
- Foundation: Begin with basic geometric shapes, such as cubes and spheres, then progress to combinations of several geometric forms, and advance to more complex still-life arrangements.
- Intermediate: Study portraiture and figure drawing, gradually developing the skills needed for more detailed work.
- Advanced: Progress to multi-figure complex scenes, integrating composition, proportion, and anatomy.
Includes drawing and painting of:
- Still Life
- Plaster Casts and Busts
- Portraiture from Life
- Portraits with Hands and Costumed Figures
- Male and Female Figure Drawing
No Photos, No projectors, No Side-Size, No Copying from Flat
The Constructive Method focuses on understanding the underlying 3D form and struture rather than relying primarily on visual observation, as in the French Academic style.
Use of photographs or projectors is not permitted, as they can hinder the development of essential artistic skills.
No tips and tricks, not You Tube.
What is Art
“Art is a human creation composed of four components: Technique (the craft and language that allow the art to be understood), Universality (the extent to which the art can be understood by almost everyone), Narrative (the story the art is telling), and Beauty (objective aesthetic standards, distinct from individual taste). All four elements must be present in any work of art, though not necessarily in equal proportions.” by Thibault Barrère
How Art Can Be Learned
Talent does not play a major role, especially at the beginning, when the techniques are being mastered. Art can be learned by anybody by following a structured program with gradual progression and by spending sufficient time refining the skills.
Do I Need to Learn from a Top Artist?
This is a major misconception. We often assume that if we learn from a famous artist, we will quickly learn their “trick” and become like them. Or we find a drawing or painting we like and try to learn directly from the artist who created it. This is not true. Top artists are usually busy producing art, and they are not interested in teaching others. When they do teach, it is often just to supplement their income. If you wanted to learn to play soccer, would you go to workshops run by Ronaldo? Art can be learned from a well-presented, structured program run by a teacher who may not be a top artist.
Studio Luka - Sydney CBD 