Group: Drawings

Method: Urban Sketching

Description of Method:
Drawing activity documenting existing features (buildings, architectural details, natural features, artworks, views etc.) of an area. Taking place in the Urban Room using photographs of existing, or through on-site sketching during a walk. Can be produced through the use of multiple media: pencil sketches, painting, collage of photos, printing, silhouette and contribute to an accumulating exhibition throughout the period of the Urban Room. Consider offering artist-led workshops where people can learn specific skills, media and techniques while also exploring their urban environment.

Purpose of Method:
Spending time drawing the existing townscape, buildings, and views of a place can help to celebrate and valorise local heritage, design quality, craftsmanship and vernacular. Accumulating exhibitions can make evident the richness of a place, seen through many eyes. Conversations flow easily while people focus on drawing, prompting further sharing of stories, memories of a place’s past, and ideas for its future.

Suitable Audience:
Drawing activities are engaging for many people, especially children and young people - individually or in groups. Some people lack confidence in their drawing skills so aim to create a supportive, informal environment with a broad range of media and techniques available for people to try out, with encouragement from facilitators/artists.