Landscape and Urban Sketching

Ages: 18+
Term: Summer
Length: 10 weeks

Overview

This weekend course for adults will allow you to discover the joy and freedom of capturing your surroundings through drawing in this engaging and accessible Landscape and Urban Sketching course.

To book your place today, simply click Book Now to be taken to AUB's secure online store, where you can complete your booking. You can also sign up to our newsletter for short course updates.

Course information

Designed for all levels, over five Saturday sessions, you'll learn practical techniques to observe, interpret, and depict landscapes, streetscapes and town scenes.

Embracing both traditional and contemporary approaches, this course encourages you to see your environment in new ways – focusing on quick sketching, capturing atmosphere and mood, and developing your own artistic voice.

Whether you’re interested in improving your observational skills, creating personal travel journals, or simply relishing time outdoors, this course offers a fun, relaxed environment to build confidence and develop your artistic skills, all while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Dorset.

Throughout the course, you’ll explore sketching in different environments, learn how to capture the essence of a scene with speed and spontaneity, and experiment with various materials and techniques. With expert guidance, you'll gain skills in composition, perspective, and handling natural light, all supporting you to translate your surroundings onto paper with confidence and creativity.

The first course session will initially take place at AUB. However, you'll be expected to make your own way to and from various locations throughout the course. Your tutor will provide you a list of venues and locations at your first session.

Guided sketching excursions in Dorset’s scenic landscapes and lively urban areas
Practical instruction on foundational drawing techniques, perspective, and composition
Tips on capturing atmosphere, light, texture, and movement in your sketches
Opportunities to experiment with different media and personal styles
Constructive feedback to help you progress and enjoy the process

At the end of the course you'll:

Know simple and effective sketching techniques for landscapes and townscapes
Have built confidence in outdoor drawing and quick observation skills
Understand how to capture atmosphere, mood, and light
Foster creative expression and personal enjoyment of sketching in real-world environments

You can request a certificate to confirm your achievements, providing you've a 100% attendance record. To request a certificate please get in touch with us at academy@aub.ac.uk and confirm your name and the title of course you've completed.

Will I be assessed?

No, there's no formal assessment. As the course progresses your tutor will measure your overall performance and offer essential guidance and feedback, so you know how you're getting on.

What you need to know

Summer term 2027

Saturdays 10 and 24 April; 8 and 22 May; 5 June 2027 (5 alternating Saturdays, 09.00–16.00)

Age

Suitable for adults aged 18+.

Level

Beginners or anyone with some experience who want to refresh or develop their skills further.

Experience or qualifications required

No prior experience is necessary. Ideally, you’ll have some familiarity with drawing, but this isn't essential. Just bring your energy, enthusiasm, and a desire to explore the world creatively.

If you'd like to discuss if this course is suitable for you, get in touch with us: academy@aub.ac.uk or 01202 363222.

£375

Any additional costs

You’ll need to purchase some basic materials for this course – please refer to the ‘What to bring to class’ section for further detail.

Additional materials and resources will be provided by AUB and is included in your course fee.

A notebook, sketchbook, sketchbook case, and a selection of drawing tools (pencils, pens, etc.)
Suitable sturdy footwear and outdoor clothing for sketching outside
A packed lunch and drinks are recommended

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Suggested Suppliers

Information about resourcing specialist materials/consumables that you may need to bring these with you

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Beyond the course

This could just be the start of your creative journey! After this course, you could further your artistic skills with another short course or look to the future and explore our creative qualifications that can prepare you to further your current career, enable you to retrain to an alternative career path or prepare you for future creative arts studies.