Vilppu Academy
This gesture and figure course offers a solid art foundation
The name Glenn Vilppu is well known among artists across the globe, in particular animators who often study his methods of gesture drawing when they begin their artistic journey.
As a veteran educator with over 50 years of teaching experience on the human form, it should come as no surprise that his school, Vilppu Academy, centres around figure drawing and anatomy. These skills are vital for artists in most fields, a deep understanding of the figure being crucial for concept artists, illustrators, modellers and animators, and Glenn’s focus on communication through drawing sets it apart from the other schools listed here.
“All artists must deal with the differences in their interests and the order of importance they give to various elements,” says Glenn. “I don’t teach a style, I teach tools of communication and give direction to acquiring knowledge. Knowledge coupled with the development of skill and feeling is what creates the magic. There are no rules, just tools.”
Vilppu Academy offers six courses with subjects ranging from drawing essentials through figure drawing, anatomy, sketching and composition. Each lasts from six to ten weeks, with prices ranging from $600 to $900 (from £425 to £637). “This classical-based programme provides artists of all levels with the fundamental tools of visual expression – understanding of movement, form, light and composition – to be applied to their particular style and genre through streaming lectures and demos, critiqued assignments and live video chats,” says Glenn.