Block-in Bootcamp
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What You Will Learn
In Block-In Bootcamp, you'll learn the essential skills that bring structure and clarity to every portrait you draw. Each day is carefully designed to help you build up from the simplest forms to a solid portrait block-in.
Understanding Facial Structure: Learn the key anatomy of the face and how to simplify the portrait into a more essential form.
Geometric Forms as Building Blocks: Use the cube, cone, cylinder, and egg to understand facial structure.
Rembrandt Lighting: How to set up and use Rembrandt lighting to enhance features, mood, and depth.
Block-in With Different Perspectives: Block in the head from the frontal, ¾, and side profile views.
Simplify & Solidify Facial Features: Break down individual facial features into bold, readable forms.
Create Likeness: Learn how to consistently achieve likeness in the broadest forms.
Anatomy of Light & Shadow: Develop an understanding for the elements of light and shadow that create form.
Key Features
14 days of structured, step-by-step video lessons: Daily exercises that build from basic shapes to solid portraits.
Downloadable guides and diagrams: Including block-in flowcharts, light & shadow anatomy diagram, and geometric drawing overlays.
Reference image library: High-quality portrait references curated for structure, light, and clarity.
The Universal Face Diagram: A printable step-by-step map for blocking in the head frontally, 3/4 and side profile.
The Light & Shadow Anatomy PDF: Understand how light works — and how to apply it to the face and features.
Private course portal: Lifetime access to all lessons and updates.
Self-evaluation toolkit: Includes a checklist and reflection prompts to help you track your progress and improve long after the course finishes.
Optional WhatsApp group: Discuss with fellow students, share work, and stay motivated.
"I thought it would be intimidating to be here, but it was the opposite. There are so many talented painters, but everyone just wants to help each other. I got to be vulnerable, humble, and focus on the craft—which was amazing."
Emile, Canada
Meet The Instructors
Nic Thurman
Nic is a classical oil painter known for helping students develop timeless, structured portraits rooted in the heart of the old masters. After studying at the Nerdrum School in Norway, he has spent years refining a method that prioritizes clarity, proportion, and the power of simplicity.
With a growing audience on YouTube and Instagram, Nic is passionate about making classical portrait drawing approachable for everyone — even total beginners.
“At the Nerdrum School, I learned that simplicity isn't a shortcut — it's the foundation. This course is how I pass that on.”
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Melisa Calabria
Melisa is a classically trained painter and instructor whose work is grounded in the tradition of classical realism. She studied in Buenos Aires under several established masters and later deepened her practice in Norway as a student of Odd Nerdrum.
Her paintings have been recognized in multiple international competitions, and she has taught in academies and workshops across different countries, sharing a methodical yet intuitive approach to portraiture.
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Her teachings emphasizes structure and the ability to see form beneath complexity — helping students move from uncertainty to confidence.​ As a long-time collaborator with Nic, she brings warmth and clarity to every lesson and critique.
“Structure builds confidence — and confidence leads to beautiful portraits.”
Our Promise to You
If you go through this course, learn the strategies, do the homework, and you don't come out of it feeling more confident in your portrait block-in abilities... We'll give you a 100% refund. That's because we know how powerful it is. And that's how confident we are that this course can transform you and your skills.
Who This Is For
Block-In Bootcamp is designed for painters who are ready to get serious about structure — whether you're just starting out or looking to rebuild your foundation with clarity and purpose.
This Course Is For You If:
You struggle with proportions and your portraits often “don’t look quite right”.
You’re a beginner and want a clear, step-by-step path to build your skills.
You’ve drawn for years, but never learned true strategy for structure — and it’s holding you back.
You want to learn to draw from life, but don’t know how to begin.
You want to move beyond sight-size and learn to truly construct the head.
You rely heavily on photo references and wish you could draw with more independence.
You’re tired of trying to copy shadows without understanding the form beneath.
You value classical painting, and want to approach portraiture with clarity and intention.
What Students Are Saying
Choose Your Block-in Bootcamp Experience
Each tier includes lifetime access to all material — with options for live events, critiques, and personalized mentorship.
3 Options for Enrollment
Essential
Course Access
$197
Early Bird $147
14-day structured Curriculum
Daily lessons and assignments
Downloadable PDFs and Guides
Reference photo library for lessons
The universal face printable
Anatomy of light and shadow guide
Lifetime access to all course material
Optional community group chat
Discount ends 7/16/25
“Everyone had something to learn, and there was real progression — you could see that everyone improved by the end of the two weeks. If you’re interested in improving your practice, you should seriously consider this. It’s valuable.”
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-Lynne, Canada
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Who is this workshop for?This workshop is perfect for anyone interested in classical painting, whether you're just starting out or looking to improve your skills. If you love the works of masters like Odd Nerdrum, Rembrandt, and Titian and want to learn how to create paintings like theirs, this workshop is for you.
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What materials will I need?You don’t need any materials to get started with this workshop! I will provide you with all of the info you need to help you choose the best materials and create a studio space you love.
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Do I need a large studio space to participate?Not at all! We'll teach you how to set up an efficient and inspiring studio space, no matter how big or small your area is. The workshop includes tips on optimizing your existing space to enhance your painting experience. I’m aware that most people have fairly small spaces so that will be specifically addressed in the workshop!
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I'm a complete beginner. Will I be able to keep up?Absolutely! This workshop is designed to be accessible for beginners while still offering valuable insights for more experienced painters. The goal is to help you get the ideal studio setup and supplies.
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Is there a refund policy?We believe in the value of this workshop, but we understand that it's important for you to feel confident in your investment. We offer a satisfaction guarantee, so you can enroll with peace of mind.
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What if I can't attend all the live sessions?While attending live is the best way to get the most out of this workshop, we understand that life can get in the way. All sessions will be recorded, so you can catch up on anything you miss at your convenience.
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How will this workshop help me improve my painting skills?Through step-by-step guidance on selecting and using high-quality materials, setting up your studio space, and overcoming mental blocks, you'll gain the knowledge and confidence to elevate your classical painting skills. Our goal is to help you create paintings that you're proud of.
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Can I purchase materials through the workshop?We will provide a list of recommended supplies and where you can purchase them. We focus on recommending materials that will truly make a difference in your work.
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Is there support available after the workshop ends?Yes! Participants will have access to an online community where you can continue to share your progress, ask questions, and get feedback from peers and instructors.
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Will there be opportunities for one-on-one feedback?Group feedback sessions are part of the workshop, where you'll receive personalized advice based on your needs. For more in-depth one-on-one feedback, please check our additional offerings post-workshop.
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Aren’t high-quality painting materials too expensive for beginners?It’s true that high-quality materials can be more of an investment, but they also make learning easier and more enjoyable, leading to better outcomes with less frustration. We'll guide you on how to choose materials that offer the best balance between quality and cost, ensuring you invest wisely as you grow in your craft.
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I've tried painting before and didn’t do well. How will this workshop be different?This workshop is structured to build your skills from the ground up, focusing on understanding materials and techniques that align with classical painting practices. With personalized guidance and a supportive learning environment, you’ll find yourself making progress you can be proud of.
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Can’t I learn all this from free resources online?While there are many free resources available, they can be overwhelming and inconsistent. This workshop offers curated, comprehensive content tailored to classical painting, combining technical knowledge with practical application, all in one coherent program. Plus, the live sessions and community support provide value that's impossible to find elsewhere.
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Will I really see improvement in my painting after just one workshop?Yes, the focused nature of this workshop on materials and workspace optimization is designed to provide noticeable improvements in your approach and execution of classical painting. Consistent practice and applying what you learn will continue to drive your progress even after the workshop ends.
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What if I don’t have a dedicated studio space?A dedicated space is ideal, but not necessary to begin with. We'll show you how to create a functional and inspiring painting area within the space you have, ensuring that your environment supports your painting journey, no matter the size.
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How much time will I need to dedicate outside of the workshop sessions?The workshop is designed to be comprehensive within its scheduled time. However, applying the concepts outside of sessions will be essential to enhance your learning experience. The practical application is flexible based on your schedule and pace.