Shape the Scene: A Journey from Block-In to Detail with Isabel Santos at the Fire Station

When time is limited and the scene is complex, the key to a successful sketch is knowing where to start. This workshop will teach you how to quickly block in the big shapes of intricate buildings and scenes before layering in finer details. It’s all about focusing on structure first—helping you build strong compositions and gain confidence, even under pressure.

🗓️ July 27, 2025
🕚 2PM – 5PM
📍 Exhibition Place Grounds

Check in: General Services Building, 2 Manitoba Dr, 1:45PM

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to simplify complex scenes by identifying and sketching large shapes first
• Discover a faster, looser sketching technique ideal for busy, complex urban scenes
• Gain confidence in capturing the essence of a place without overworking the details
• Develop a strong compositional foundation before adding fine lines and textures

 

Materials Participants Need to Bring:

1. Watercolour sketchbook, cold-pressed, 300 gsm A5 (6 x 8 inches) or A4 (8×11 inches), make sure the paper is thick enough to hold water
2. Fine-liner like Micron pens or a fountain pen with permanent ink (for fountain pen, do not use India ink or Chinese calligraphy ink, as it will destroy your pen)
3. Watercolour palette with your basic blues, yellows, and reds; burnt sienna and indigo are also recommended
4. Watercolour brushes, round 6 or bigger, 1-inch flat brush (if available)
5. Water container to clean brushes
6. Waterbrush, if you have one
7. Binder clips to hold the paper in case it’s windy
8. Support board if your sketchbook has a soft cover
9. Small camping stool to sit on while sketching (this is at least a 2 and a half workshop, you may want to sit and relax while sketching)
10. Water – for hydration and to use for painting
11. Paper towel
12. Hat, sunglasses, sunblock
13. Snacks

 

Instructor’s Bio:

Isabel enjoys sketching on location, whether she’s on vacation, having afternoon tea, riding the subway, waiting in line, or anything else that catches her attention. She has conducted in-person and online demos, workshops and classes in Canada and the United States. Her workshops primarily focus on non-architect artists who are challenged with sketching complex architectural subjects. In addition to being involved with Urban Sketchers Toronto, she volunteers for the Urban Sketchers Organization Membership Committee, North American Team.

Socials:

INSTAGRAM: @modellatura_art
YOUTUBE: @modellatura_art

Register Here