Michigan Youth Urban Sketching Program
"We sketch with kids to draw community"
in partnership with
Drawing in Place
Drawing in Place introduces children and families to their communities through urban sketching.
Location: Benton Harbor Arts District
Mason Jar: at the back side
Date: Friday, July 24
Time: 12:30–2:30 p.m.
Participants will spend a little time to slow down, observe carefully, and discover the buildings, streets, public spaces and the people that make each community unique. No drawing experience is necessary.
Registration:
Registration is required for children who would like to receive a free sketching kit.
The first 15 registered participants at each session will receive:
a sketchbook
a drawing pen
a drawing pencil
Additional participants are welcome to attend. They may bring their own sketchbook or use the paper and pencils provided.
Parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends are welcome to sketch alongside the children.
What to Expect-
A brief introduction to the session, followed by simple guidance on observation and urban sketching techniques.
-
Professionals and assistants will be available throughout the session to offer encouragement, answer questions, and share ideas.
-
Participants are invited to share their sketches, reflect on what they discovered, and appreciate each other's unique perspectives.
-
We'll conclude by celebrating everyone's creativity and reminding participants that the focus is on exploration and enjoyment—not artistic ability.
Sample Itinerary-
Workshop participants ease into the day with creative prompts and a welcome circle to get grounded and set the tone.
-
Our first session focuses on the foundations of floral design. From tool basics to flower care and simple composition tips, you’ll start building confidence and finding your creative rhythm.
-
Participants will be responsible for brining their own lunch, but we'll provide water and some additional snacks throughout the day.
-
With the basics fresh, we’ll dive into hands-on arranging. We’ll explore shape, scale, and movement while encouraging personal style through floral design.
-
To close the day, you’ll create a final piece to share with the group. We’ll reflect on your process and celebrate the creativity that unfolded.
Meet Your Instructors
Mark Moreno
Mark Moreno is a professor of Architecture, educator, and founder of Renaissance Kids Architecture Camp. For nearly two decades, he has inspired more than 1,000 children through hands-on architectural experiences that encourage creativity, observation, and a deeper appreciation for the communities around them.
Emmett Marsh
Emmett is a detail-oriented instructor who’s spent the past decade helping people develop new tools, habits, and mindsets. Their approach is clear, practical, and always infused with curiosity and care.
Eleanor Parks
Eleanor's background spans education, coaching, and creative development. With a strong focus on process and progress, Eleanor helps learners move from where they are to where they want to be—one step at a time.
Drawing in Place introduces children and families to their communities through urban sketching.
Location: Benton Harbor Arts District
Mason Jar: at the back side
Date: Friday, July 24
Time: 12:30–2:30 p.m.
Participants will spend a little time to slow down, observe carefully, and discover the buildings, streets, public spaces and the people that make each community unique. No drawing experience is necessary.
Registration:
Registration is required for children who would like to receive a free sketching kit.
The first 15 registered participants at each session will receive:
a sketchbook
a drawing pen
a drawing pencil
Additional participants are welcome to attend. They may bring their own sketchbook or use the paper and pencils provided.
Parents, grandparents, siblings, and friends are welcome to sketch alongside the children.