Hosted by the ICAA Southeast Chapter
It is the intention of this course to explore both the theory and technique of the medium of watercolor painting, particularly as it applies to architectural representation. Historically, an understanding of the fundamental principles of watercolor as a design tool has been considered indispensable to the education of the architect because of its insistence on accurate knowledge of form and space, value contrast, and scaling of color. For centuries, it has been the preferred medium for traveling architects and artists because of its easy portability, quick execution, and its adaptability to a wide range of colors and values.
Representation in this medium might be divided into two major categories according to their dominant characteristics: descriptive and expressive. It is the objective of this course for the student to gain the ability to employ both in a skillful manner. The session will include discussions on content and theory as well as application of materials and techniques. The morning session will include wash practice and detail rendering techniques. The afternoon session will focus on the completion of a watercolor painting by all participants using a sketch prompt.
Instructor: Adrienne Retief
Growing up in South Africa, Adrienne was fascinated by the unique vernacular of her surroundings and the way building typology and location were often inextricable. Her love of both science and art led her to the study of architecture. With a degree in Natural Science and Mathematics from the University of Alabama at Birmingham and a professional degree in Architecture from Auburn University, her background blends creativity, science, and technical expertise. Adrienne’s passion lies in residential design, and she joined Peffer Torode Architecture as a Senior Associate in their Birmingham office in 2022. Adrienne is also a passionate watercolorist, and she loves to share that passion with others. Her particular interest lies in travel sketching, and she believes nothing anchors memories of the experience of place quite like the act of sketching and painting on location. She offers watercolor workshops locally and abroad where she encourages participants to explore the magic of watercolor for a few hours, a day, a week or perhaps even a lifetime. Adrienne has travelled widely, and her travels inform much of her work. Adrienne is a signature member of the Watercolor Society of Alabama, and her paintings are in private collections all over the world
This event is hosted by an ICAA Chapter. Please check the Chapter website or contact the Chapter directly for the most up-to-date details including dates, times, and pricing.
At the end of the course, participants will be able to:
1) Provide the students with an overview of the history of watercolor painting as it pertains to architectural rendering and observational documentation.
2) Illustrate a range of examples of watercolor renderings throughout history and what can be learned from them.
3) Review step by step guides on setting up and executing watercolor washes and additional painting techniques.
4) Guided hands-on practice sessions including wash, rendering techniques, and completion of a painting based on a sketch prompt.