Architectural Rendering: Pen & Ink

For this project, you produce an architectural rendering of a building on the SAU campus. This year, we will produce various views of the Reynolds center. You should include landscaping of some kind with this rendering. You will have a variety of textures that you will need to duplicate, so feel .

Specifications:

Within an 11” by 14” sheet of Bristol board, you will produce one finished pen and ink rendering of a view of the Reynolds Center. You may use the style of your choice. The finished illustration will then be mounted to black matteboard or foamboard with a 1/2” border all the way around.

Instructions:

Begin with a thorough observation of your subject. Take a few minutes to understand the object’s form and texture. Take special care to denote the play of light upon the surface of the object, as this will be one of the determining factors in producing convincing texture and volume. Next, lightly sketch your object with pencil. You should produce several studies of your object before you begin on the final illustration. Use these sketches to assist you in determining correct placement of light, shadow, transitions and textural effects, as well as placement of the illustration on the page and correct reproduction of the form itself in correct perspective.

Feel free to remove any unsightly elements from your drawing (trashcans, ashtrays, old, ugly parked cars, etc.) to make it as attractive as possible.

Texture is the key element that will make this project succeed or fail. Nature offers a plethora of distinct patterns and textures, found in everything to blades of grass to leaves, tree bark, rock, soil, sand, water, etc. One of the ways to achieve a believable texture is to pay close attention to how light plays across the surface of the particular texture. Include strong light and dark contrasts and a clear focal point for a more interesting rendering. If done well, this piece stands an excellent chance of being included as a portfolio piece.

Also, pay close attention to man-made textures, such as metal, glass, brick, etc. If these have a texture, they will usually be in a repetitive pattern. You don't neccessarily have to fill up an entire space with a texture. You may only need to include enough information to communicate the texture of that particular area of space.

Instructor's Example (Brinson Art Building):

Previous SAU Student Examples:

Greek Theater, 2003

Overstreet Hall, 2003

2005

Business Building, 2006

2007