45 credits towards the ICAA Certificate in Classical Architecture | 45 AIA CES Learning Units|Elective
The ICAA’s Christopher H. Browne Drawing Tours are a reimagining of the long tradition of designers traveling—both domestically and abroad—to study and document precedents in order to inform and inspire the design of new buildings and places. The Drawing Tours aim to enhance practitioners’ knowledge and skills in creative and informed applications of the classical tradition. Each program is guided by leading architects in classical design. Instructors will explore a carefully-curated itinerary of drawing and study sites that introduce participants to the unique design characteristics of the city.These programs are especially designed for emerging practitioners who have some prior experience working in traditional design, and are looking to expand the breadth of precedents that they can utilize in practice throughout their careers. The Drawing Tours are also frequently attended by established designers, artists, and all those looking to generally broaden their knowledge of classical design precedents.One of England’s most architecturally rich cities, Oxford is known for its silhouette of spires and towers as well as for the beauty of its stone buildings. Much of the fabric of the city is made up of the university’s colleges in which there are many hidden gems behind walls and gates. The Christopher H. Browne Drawing Tour will explore the urban fabric and streets of Oxford, as well as some of the more private parts of the city that would not normally be open to visitors.
George Saumarez Smith is one of the leading classical architects of his generation. George’s work has ranged in scale from new country houses and garden buildings to large housing schemes. Much of his inspiration comes from the appreciation and study of historic buildings, combined with a keen interest in the continued use of the techniques of classical design handed down through history. George has written several books on architecture and regularly teaches classicism at schools across Europe and North America. He is also known for producing large scale drawings, a selection of which formed the basis of the exhibition ‘Measure, Draw, Build’, held at the RIBA in October 2017.Martin Burns graduated from Notre Dame with a Bachelor of Architecture. He works at Fairfax & Sammons Architects in New York. As an ICAA instructor, Martin’s focus is on the development of coursework in analytical and measured drawing. Martin is a painter as well as draftsman, and works as an artist outside of the office.
A draft itinerary and materials list for the 2024 Christopher H. Browne Oxford Drawing Tour is now available to view here. Please note that there may be changes and updates to this itinerary leading up to the program. For more information about this program, please contact [email protected].
It is recommended that participants have experience with architectural field drawing, or have taken a Measured Drawing and/or Analytical Drawing skills class with the ICAA, prior to attending a Drawing Tour. Instructors will provide an introduction to each site and demonstrations of relevant drawing techniques, as well as informally assist with participant questions throughout the program. However, the Drawing Tour is intended as an advanced study of precedents rather than a formal course in fundamental field drawing or plein air watercolor techniques.
Instructional Delivery Method: Live In-Person Learning Program Program Level: Intermediate AIA CES Program Approval Expiration Date: October 9, 2026 Provider Number: G193 Provider Statement: The Institute of Classical Architecture & Art is a registered provider of AIA-approved continuing education under Provider Number G193. All registered AIA CES Providers must comply with the AIA Standards for Continuing Education Programs. Any questions or concerns about this provider or this learning program may be sent to AIA CES ([email protected] or (800) AIA 3837, Option 3).
This learning program is registered with AIA CES for continuing professional education. As such, it does not include content that may be deemed or construed to be an approval or endorsement by the AIA of any material of construction or any method or manner of handling, using, distributing, or dealing in any material or product.
AIA continuing education credit has been reviewed and approved by AIA CES. Learners must complete the entire learning program to receive continuing education credit. AIA continuing education Learning Units earned upon completion of this course will be reported to AIA CES for AIA members. Certificates of Completion for both AIA members and non-AIA members are available upon request.
The Christopher H. Browne Drawing Tours honor the generosity, leadership, and legacy of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art’s late Trustee, Mr. Christopher H. Browne. The ICAA is pleased to award four scholarships to drawing tour students or emerging professionals annually in the name of Mr. Browne, a long-time supporter and champion of classicism. Scholarship recipients will receive the moniker “Christopher H. Browne Scholars."In addition, the ICAA is pleased to offer a scholarship for the Christopher H. Browne Oxford Drawing Tour through the Dorothy LaPolla-Czarnecki Scholarship, sponsored by John LaPolla and LaPolla Designs. This scholarship is offered in honor of John's late mother Dorothy LaPolla-Czarnecki for her unwavering encouragement and promotion of education. John, his family, and company continue this legacy of support and mentorship of aspiring students and craft persons in education and the arts.The following materials are required for consideration for a scholarship:
The final deadline for scholarship applications is Monday, March 4, 2024. Applicants will be notified of decisions by the end of March 15, 2024.
Questions regarding the ICAA's courses may be directed via email to [email protected]; via phone to 212-730-9646 ext. 112; or via mail to our National Office at 20 West 44th Street, Suite 310, New York, NY 10036.
The price is only for the course instruction. You will need to make and pay for your own flights and accommodation.
Typically a combination of students and professionals attend.
Yes, absolutely. Most evenings can be spent exploring on your own or with fellow participants.
Some meals are included, which will be spent together as a group. Otherwise you are free to eat where and with whom you please.
The ICAA does not provide materials, but will provide a full materials list at least one month before the course. Typically, the cost of materials is between $100 and $200.
No. Programs are designed to introduce a broad range of skills and experiences which is only possible through full participation.
You may refer to the ICAA's cancellation policy [here.]