Thomas Egan

Over the last year I have taken my knowledge and skills in portraiture and figure drawing and have shared them with groups and individuals across a wide range of ages and skill levels.

Coming from a background of children's arts education, I have developed an intuitive teaching style, centering around each participant as an individual. My aim as a tutor is to ensure my instructions are clear, colloquial and jargon free, forefronting a friendly atmosphere, which is grounded in encouragement as well as constructive feedback. I attend life drawing classes and sessions myself, and understand what can make the process frustrating. The most important aspect of arts instruction, in my view, is enabling a positive interaction with art, and ensuring that the focus is on development rather than perfection.

My first group tutoring job was with a tattoo studio, facilitating the resident artists’ development of their figure and portrait drawing abilities. Learning how to explain the technical aspects of drawing was a challenge, but one which has given me the language to better communicate the processes involved. Each artist already had their own style and competencies in the practice of figure drawing, which required engagement with each individual to address their professional needs.

From there, I had the confidence to approach more workshop providers, having developed my drawing programme for a range of audiences. The first of these was with OWLS (Older Wiser Local Seniors) at Left Bank Leeds, a community-led venue for artistic initiatives. I had the great experience of working with people aged 60+ for the first time, which provided me with a new set of challenges and experiences, working with upwards of 16 adults at totally different skill levels at once.

In this time I also approached the Bowery Cafe in Headingley and have since hosted two sessions there, both of which used life models as subjects. The sessions consisted of one 4 hour portraiture class,and a second 3 hour class which focused on the whole figure. These sessions were aimed at absolute beginners and were well received. I had the pleasure of witnessing incredible progression within each class, and have been asked to return for more this summer.

In collaboration with the Headingley Enterprise and Arts Centre (HEART), I have been running a weekly tutored drawing session called “Together We Draw” since the 4th of March 2025. The session is currently attended by a group of participants aged between 40 and 70 years of age sporting a range of abilities. It is a highlight of my week, and whilst the atmosphere is more relaxed than a one-off developmental-based workshop, the group is progressing in their work together. My aim is for each attendee to have learnt or tried something new before the end of each session.

I am still early in my journey in the realm of arts education, however, I feel that I bring a real excitement and engagement with drawing as a practice of consideration, exploration, and pleasure. It would be a joy to work with you!



“I am the founder and owner of Karma Arts Tattoo studio. Improving our skills is always a priority, which is why my team and I have private drawing lessons with Thomas every week. He comes to our studio personally and professionally teaches us the fundamental principles of drawing, which are crucial for us as tattoo artists. Thomas is always well-prepared for lessons, considers our needs, and helps us improve. Thanks to him, we have a deeper understanding of drawing mechanics, which directly enhances the quality of our work. Moreover, he is not only a great teacher but also a kind and patient person who is a pleasure to work with. We are truly grateful for his dedication, professionalism, and genuine willingness to help us grow.”

Ricardas, Founder and Owner of Karma Arts Tattoo