Jackson Free Press

For Jerrod Partridge, figure drawing is more about perspective than the actual act of putting graphite to paper.

"People naturally develop symbols for what they think things look like," the artist says. "For example, if we are drawing a human face, we make a symbol for what a nose looks like, or what an eye looks like. It's really common that when people are drawing a model, that they put those symbols in place rather than really looking at what's in front of them and drawing accurately."

Starting Jan. 3, Patridge teaches the "Winter Figure Drawing Session" at Gallery 119, using techniques he learned from the New York Academy of Art where he earned his master's degree in fine arts in 2004.

The Mobile, Ala.. native is a full-time artist, specializing in portrait paintings and graphite drawings. He moved to Jackson in the late '90s to attend Mississippi College where he earned his bachelor's degree in art. He says the class is intended for individuals with basic to intermediate drawing skills, and he plans to work with students on a one-to-one basis.

Partridge, 33, mainly showcases his work at Gallery 119. He is also the author of the blog "Jackson Art Seen," where he reviews local art exhibits. He lives in Fondren with his wife, Jessie, and children Ren, 5, and Mae, 3.

"Winter Figure Drawing Session" is Jan. 3 through March 7 at Nunnery's Gallery inside Gallery 119. (119 S. President St.) The class is Monday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.; $275. Call 601-668-5408 to enroll. Visit Partridge's website, for more information.