SESSION Abstract: Stop Drawing, Start Seeing: Urban Sketching Demystified:
Unlock a brilliant new way of seeing your city. Forget the myth of "natural talent"—sketching is a teachable technical skill that anyone can master. In this energetic, hands-on session, you’ll drop the intimidation and learn the exact rules of perspective, pencil grip, and proportional sighting. We’ll start with simple blocks and quickly build up to capturing vibrant streetscapes and local architecture. Whether you want to communicate design concepts on the fly without a 3D model, or simply want to create lasting memories that photographs can't match, this course makes sketching achievable, useful, and incredibly fun.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn the fundamentals of urban sketching, including perspective, pencil techniques and proportions, to confidently draw streetscapes and local architecture.
- Discover how sketching can help you see your surroundings differently, communicate design ideas and capture memorable places creatively, no natural talent required.
Date: Thursday 11th February, 2027
Location: We are delighted to be hosting at the Hygge at Clifton Bay Clifton Road, Te Awanga, New Zealand
Time & format: The course will start at 10am, with a coffee and tea break followed by a lively facilitated discussion to answer all your curious questions. The course will finish at 12pm each week.
About the expert
Jonathan Pickup
Jonathan Pickup is the founder and director of Archoncad, a leading global destination for Vectorworks training, resources, and community education. Trained as an architect in New Zealand and the UK, Jonathan brings decades of hands-on design industry experience to his educational platform.
As a premier authority on CAD and BIM solutions, he specializes in Vectorworks Architect, 3D Modeling, and Landmark software workflows. Through Archoncad, Jonathan empowers design professionals, architects, and landscapers worldwide to maximize their software potential, streamline their drafting processes, and elevate their creative projects through comprehensive online courses, manuals, and continuous professional development
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