PUTTING PEN TO PAPER
NEW MEMBER BENEFIT
/ BSLA ketch s oston b
PUTTING PEN TO PAPER
ADAM FEARING , ASSOCIATE ASLA
Art in the landscape often begins with a sketch . From a quick pen scratch on a napkin to a basic layout diagram in a notebook , the artistic concepts that translate to successful landscape design likely start with quick and dirty drawings .
Hand sketching is no doubt one of a designer ’ s greatest tools : it strengthens observational skills and allows us to gain a deeper understanding of the built environment . Yet , at the same time , we find that we ’ re not doing enough of it — the mouse and keyboard are often the first things many landscape architects reach for in the design process .
So we know sketching is valuable . But why aren ’ t we doing it as much as we would like to ? Maybe we weren ’ t born with “ the gift ” of drawing . Maybe we don ’ t know how to stay motivated when a sketch isn ’ t turning out how we want it to . Maybe we ’ re looking for the right thing to draw . Or maybe we just don ’ t know where to start .
Thats where Sketch Boston comes in . We aim to be an open group for all levels of sketchers to come together , sketch , share , learn , and have fun .
All members can learn from each other , sharing effective techniques , favorite media , and exciting places . This group will be an open forum for anyone interested in sketching the landscape .
Sketch Boston will have casual meet ups throughout the city . We ’ ll pick a place and a time . Attendees can bring whatever materials they like , roam the area for ideas , and eventually reconvene to discuss , share , or just listen .
The details surrounding the first meetup are still being discussed . For now , feel free to join the Sketch Boston community through Facebook and Instagram . Let ’ s begin a conversation , start to share our sketches , and most importantly get excited about the relationship between sketching and our understanding of the landscape .
It is time to stop acting sketchy about sketching and put pen to paper , graphite to graph paper , or even crayon to cardboard — whatever it takes to get those brilliant ideas down .
Boston Society of Landscape Architects Fieldbook
41