Participants in this summer school will embark on an inspiring, hands-on journey at the intersection of ecology and artistic design. Through this programme, you’ll delve into transformative themes such as integrating nature into urban spaces, creating climate-resilient cities, and discovering your unique illustration style—whether digital or analog.
Gain insights from leading experts Bart Backaert and Nadina Galle, who will deliver thought-provoking lectures on ecological urban design and the role of nature in architecture. The lectures are organised for a public audience. In addition, hands-on workshops, led by instructors from the University of Antwerp, will immerse participants in artistic illustration techniques such as inkwash, watercolor, and digital tools, blending traditional artistry with modern design.
By the end of the programme, you’ll not only refine your technical illustration skills but also develop a unique graphic style to create visually compelling designs rooted in ecological principles. This is your chance to transform climate-resilient ideas into art and contribute meaningfully to shaping sustainable cities of the future!
The programme is ideal for students and young professionals with a foundation in architectural or urban design who want to enhance their graphic and sustainable design skills. Find out more about the target group and prerequisites.
Target group and prerequisites
This summer school is designed primarily for (master's) students and professionals in the fields of architecture, urban design, landscape architecture, and environmental planning who are interested in integrating ecological principles into their design practice. This programme is ideal for those who want to explore the intersection of nature and urban environments, with a particular focus on climate resilience and sustainability.
This course will also appeal to individuals passionate about environmental advocacy and urban ecology, providing a hands-on experience in designing climate-resilient spaces. It will also be highly beneficial for those with an interest in cutting-edge design tools, such as digital illustration, AI, and traditional artistic techniques. The programme fosters an international and interdisciplinary environment, encouraging collaboration between participants from diverse educational and cultural backgrounds
Prerequisites
Some background in architecture, urban design, or landscape architecture is recommended for this summer school. Participants should have basic architectural design and drawing skills, as the programme focuses on creating artistic illustrations of architectural projects.
Familiarity with design software like AutoCAD, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, or tools like Procreate is helpful but not required. Basic skills in perspective drawing and composition are advantageous, as these techniques will be further explored.
While a background in ecology or sustainable design is optional, participants should have an interest in integrating ecological principles and climate-resilient solutions into architectural designs. An open mindset toward experimental design and illustration methods is encouraged.
Perspective theory is material that bachelor students have covered in the first year of Architecture, and mastering it is the minimum requirement to follow the course. However, a Perspective Theory course can be shared online with participants if needed.
Campus
This summer school takes place at Stadscampus (Prinsstraat 13, 2000 Antwerp) of the University of Antwerp. This campus is located in the city centre.
Micro-credential and study credits (ECTS)
Successful completion of the summer school can be awarded with 3 credits according to the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS). Credits will be awarded by the University of Antwerp on the base of attending the preparatory track, 100% (active) participation during the course and group work and submission of an individual project at the end of the the course.
To include the credits in the curriculum at the home institution, participants need an agreement with the responsible person at their university. A certificate will be awarded at the end of the programme. All certificates of completion are issued as a micro-credential.
Learning outcomes
- The student has a basic understanding of the latest insights of climate science on climate change and urban heat island effects.
- The student can explain and apply the concepts of adaptation and mitigation in the context of climate change and heritage. The student can transpose these actions towards broader sustainable developmental and societal challenges.
- The student can adopt a critical attitude with respect to prevailing visions in the domain, "thinking outside the box”.
- The student knows and understands the reasons for biodiversity decline and can formulate appropriate management measures to stop or reverse the decline.
Required materials
Below, you can find the minimum list of materials required at the start of the summer school. Depending on your assignment, the list may be expanded with additional materials. All materials must be purchased by the participant.
DRAWING TOOLS:
- Graphite pencil set (2H, 1H, HB, 1B, 2B, 3B, 4B, 5B, 6B, 7B, 8B, 9B)
- Pencil sharpener
- Mechanical graphite pencil (B)
- Fountain pen with black ink cartridges
- Indian ink (black)
- Felt-tip pens (no technical drawing pens!)
PAPER:
- Sketchbook (A5)
- Sketch paper (A4)
- Sketch paper (A3)
PAINTING TOOLS:
- Watercolor set Winsor & Newton (Cotman 12 colors) or a qualitative alternative
- 1 pot of white gouache paint
- Soft brushes: Round (no. 1 & 3); Flat (1 cm & 2 cm)
- Mixing palette with various empty or separate reservoirs