Your Act of Creative Sketching

Computer Aided Drawing (CAD) software has changed the world of architecture dramatically. CAD software allows designers to roam curvilinear buildings without hesitation. This phenomenon has revolutionized the visual perception of buildings, which now radiate repercussions throughout the architecture profession. Consultants must seek solutions that compliment the architect’s ideas. However, the use of CAD software inhibits the creative process due to the fact that energy is spent using the software rather than exploring design concepts.

Sketching, unlike CAD, is an unencumbered process of drawing without being limited by restrictions. The act of sketching is a process that extrapolate interpretations of the architect’s intuitiveness. It is a harmonic connection between seeing, perceiving, exploring, and executing. It is a process where ideas from the perception of the 3D world are translated on to a 2D medium. There are various ways to sketch things that we see, and these can be represented in axonometric or perspective views. Perspective method of sketching is the default process that we ordinarily choose, since that is how we perceive our surroundings, but it is a complex process that requires precise drafting skills. CAD now makes this process redundant.

My lectures are to introduce a systematic approach on how to sketch naturally. It is not about teaching you how to sketch, but how to assist you in creating your own method of sketching. Topics to be covered are: “Approach to thinking about sketching”; “Framed views”; “Sketching Layers”; “Setting the scale”; “Where to start a sketch”; and “Shades and shadows”, to mention a few. These are considered “Sketching Ground Rules” and will act as a catalyst for illustrating complex sketching techniques later. They are purposely related to architectural sketching techniques. Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and Leonardo da Vinci, made sketches their initial steps to creating great masterpieces.

Equipment Required

A4 paper; A4 tracing paper; 01, 02, 03, Staedtler drawing pens; A set of 12 Staedtler colored pencils; 4B Faber-Castell pencil; and a A4 Clip board. No erasers are allowed.

About the Author

Errol Patrick Hugh is a Registered Architect with more than 30 years experience and the Author of “A Personal Journey Through Sketching” ISBN-13 978988 1 847911; and “The Act of Creative Sketching” ISBN 978-988-15217-6-7.