Skilled drawing is the foundation of the entire Schuler School curriculum. The student, concentrating on the accurate rendering of the shapes of shadows and the simplifying and measuring of forms, learns to train the eye and to create three-dimensional forms on a two-dimensional surface. Students also copy from reproductions of Old Master drawings and receive lectures and exercises in perspective. Advanced drawing sessions use life models to teach proportion, movement and composition.

Students begin with ink tracings of bones and muscles, progressing to a study of proportional schematics and movement illustrations. Advanced students create acetate overlays that integrate bones and muscles and copy anatomical studies from the Old Masters. The skeleton and live models are also incorporated. Anatomy lectures are given throughout the school year.

Students learn basic techniques of oil painting and composition as well as the preparation of the Maroger medium and black oil. They also learn to grind paint from powdered pigments and prepare painting surfaces. Beginners copy from reproductions of the masters and advance to create their own compositions concentrating on progressively difficult subjects.

The techniques of watercolor are taught through working from flowers, still life, and landscape. Classes are held outdoors when weather permits. Principles of composition, color, and perspective are stressed.

Students work from life models in various media. Instruction focuses on anatomy, lighting, likeness, and style. Beginning students are encouraged to copy from portrait reproductions and to draw the model in charcoal.

The student models in plasteline and terra cotta, working from existing plaster casts. This enables them to learn the basic techniques of building a three dimensional form. Emphasis is placed on accurate measurement and knowledge of anatomy. The student will learn how to cast a piece in plaster and prepare a terra cotta piece for firing. Life models for portrait and figure are provided for advanced students.

Working in a variety of media, students study the human form from life models. They are able to apply their anatomy lessons by drawing the models in many different poses, observing bone and muscle structure, proportion, and balance. Five minute poses develop gesture drawing skills, and poses of twenty-minutes or longer encourage in-depth study of the figure, movement and form.

Students learn methods and techniques specific to landscape including composition, perspective, color and light. Plein Air(Outdoor) classes provide additional opportunities to understand and interpret a wealth of visual information from life. Additional coursework may include creating master copies to further hone observational and technical skills.