This architect-led workshop will take sketchers out into the surrounding neighborhood to practice free-hand drawing by observing, analyzing, and documenting buildings as well as learning about the architectural history of select buildings. The workshop will start at Gadsby’s Tavern where a brief history lesson will be shared, then the group will walk through the market square towards The Carlyle House where sketchers will have the opportunity for the first sketch while learning about the history of the house. Before walking down King Street, the group will make a short stop at the Flounders House for another brief history note. The second sketch site will be at the Torpedo Factory waterfront side. A wrap-up session will end the workshop with a chance for participants to share their sketches with others.

Locations: 

• Meet at Gadsby’s Tavern at 1:45PM
• Fist Sketch – Carlyle House
• Short Stop – Flounders House
• Second Sketch – Torpedo Factory Waterfront Side
• Happy Hour at 4PM – Location TBD

Learning Objectives

1. Review the history and importance of sketching for architects and designers as a tool for creative thinking and exploration.
2. Explore differences between “artistic” and “design” sketching and how architects typically use sketching as an integral component of their design process. Examples will also be given for application of sketching in non-design fields like computer programming.
3. Identify ways that sketching can be used in a modern architect’s office setting in conjunction with computer software for 2-D drawing, 3-D modeling, and artistic rendering.
4. Experiment with sketching through participation in a plein-air walking tour with several stops for group sketching opportunities.

Provider: AIA Northern Virginia
Provider Number: A058
Course Number: NOVA2026-009, Session 1

2.0 AIA LU|Elective Pending