Tracing Rhythm: Life Drawing
with Barbie Kjar
We’re delighted to announce the return of a special life drawing masterclass led by acclaimed artist and educator Barbie Kjar - Tracing Rhythm.
Held within our cbOne Artist Studios, this immersive workshop offers a rare opportunity to draw from live models who are also performing musicians - a setting where sound, movement and mark-making come together in a shared, energetic studio experience.
A different kind of life drawing
This is not a traditional life drawing session.
As music unfolds in the room, participants are invited to respond not only to form, but to rhythm, gesture and atmosphere. The presence of live performance introduces a shifting dynamic - where line becomes more intuitive, and drawing begins to move with the body in front of you.
Across the day, you’ll move from quick, expressive sketches into a more resolved final work, learning how to translate observation into confident, personal mark-making.
Experimenting with artist quality charcoal and ink
Using a curated selection of artist-quality materials, Barbie will guide participants through a range of approaches to drawing - from bold, gestural marks to more refined tonal work.
Through charcoal, ink, washes and brushes, you’ll explore how different tools can shape the language of your drawing - building depth, movement and clarity on the page.
Learn from a leading artist
Barbie Kjar brings decades of experience as both a practicing artist and educator.
Her work spans portraiture, identity and narrative, and is held in major collections including the National Gallery of Australia and the National Gallery of Victoria. Alongside an extensive exhibition history, she has taught across leading institutions including the University of Tasmania and the National Art School, shaping generations of artists through her thoughtful, process-led approach.
Her teaching is generous, attentive and grounded in practice - offering guidance that meets each participant where they are.
A shared studio experience
More than a workshop, this is a day spent in good company - drawing, experimenting and connecting within a relaxed, light-filled studio environment.
Whether you’re new to life drawing or looking to deepen your practice, the session is open to all levels. You’ll leave with new ways of seeing, a stronger understanding of materials, and a finished work that reflects your own response to the day.
All materials are provided, along with refreshments - and participants receive a studio discount on any materials used, should you wish to continue exploring beyond the session.
Workshop details
Date: Saturday, 9 May
Time: 10:00am - 4:00pm
Location: cbOne Artist Studios, Level 1, 1B Marine Parade, Abbotsford
We’re proud to host artists of this calibre within our studios, and to create spaces where students are able to experiment with the most beautiful materials in an open and supportive environment.
If you’ve been looking for a way back into drawing - or a new way through it - this is a beautiful place to begin.