Urban Sketching & Plein Air Painting with Don Yang
In this workshop, participants are introduced to fundamentals, various mediums, and working methods of urban sketching.
From instructor’s demo and instruction, participants will learn to sketch diverse scenes in Grant Park using their own medium of choice.
*Additional instruction in plein air painting will be provided for any participants who have equipment and some experience in plein air painting.
Summer Social: A Gathering for Emerging Professionals in Architecture & Design
Join us for an evening of conversation, connection, and community as we welcome incoming young professionals, interns, and emerging voices in architecture, design, and craft.
Set within the inspiring setting of Via Chicago in Logan Square and hosted by the Luminaries Committee, a group of professionals from firms across Chicago. This gathering is rooted in something many of us have deeply benefited from throughout our own careers: mentorship and industry connections. This is our way of paying it forward. Whether you’re looking for career guidance, hoping to grow your network, curious about different career paths, or simply wanting to meet others who share your passion for the built environment, this evening is for you.
Light bites, beverages, and a special giveaway are generously sponsored by Terrazzo & Marble Supply and Chai Ming Studios, with our gracious venue sponsor, Via Chicago. Come build relationships that can shape what comes next.
Walking Tour of Chicago's Motor Row District
Please join the Chicago-Midwest ICAA for our walking tour of Chicago's Historic Pullman Neighborhood. This walking tour will serve as a "site visit" in preparation of our upcoming Design Competition.
Chicago's Motor Row Historic District is recognized as an official Historic Landmark District. Hear stories of Chicago's rich architectural and automotive history. Take a trip back into the Golden Age of the automobile when all your automotive needs could be found in what remains the most intact historic automotive mall in the United States.
Tour led by Leslie Clark Lewis
Leslie Clark Lewis has been a Chicago Architecture Center docent for 17 years. Always interested in history, art and design, Leslie discovered her post-retirement career after taking a Chicago Architecture Center river cruise. She notes, "My favorite part about being a docent is sharing the REAL Chicago with people from all over the world. But also participating in docent life. I've met wonderful friends, participated in docent leadership and committee work. CAC has provided a platform for sharing my own talents and interests. What a win-win situation!" You will find Leslie on the river cruise or one of the many walking tours she's learned over the years: Interior Treasures of Chicago's Golden Age, Art Deco Skyscrapers: The Loop & Riverfront, Gold Coast: Astor Street, North Dearborn Parkway: Ashes to Affluence - and more!
Limited tickets available.
Gilding Workshop at Simes Studios
Join Simes Studios for a two-hour immersion into the art of gilding. We’ll begin with a concise overview of the craft and its history – from the gold leaf of ancient Egypt and the Italian Renaissance to its enduring role in architecture and decorative arts. You’ll then move from theory to practice with demonstrations of watergilding on glass and applying gold leaf to a small ornamental rosette using oil gilding techniques. Under expert guidance, you’ll handle the materials firsthand, learn the distinctions between the two methods, and complete a finished, gilded piece to take home. A rare chance to experience a centuries old tradition.
Wine and light bites will be available.
This event is generously sponsored by Simes Studios.
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
*2 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture (Observational Drawing)
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
Last Saturday of the Month | 3–5pm | Locations Throughout the Twin Cities
Join the ICAA Chicago-Midwest Chapter's Minnesota Subcommittee for our monthly sketching series. This series brings together local architects, designers, artists, and enthusiasts to draw from observation at historically and architecturally significant locations throughout the Twin Cities.
Drawing on the principles of classical draftsmanship, these gatherings follow in the great tradition of creatives who have studied the built environment through direct observation — because to draw is to truly see. Each session is led by a local ICAA member and includes a brief discussion on materials, choice of subject, and foundational skills such as perspective, composition, and the relationship between the built and natural landscape.
All experience levels are warmly welcomed. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to sketching, these sessions offer an opportunity to develop your eye, connect with fellow classicists, and deepen your appreciation for the architecture and urban fabric of our region.
We meet on the last Saturday of each month from 3–5pm at rotating locations around the Twin Cities. Participants are invited to continue the conversation over drinks at a no-host happy hour following each gathering.
Location and details for each session will be announced in advance. Check back for updates
AI in Practice: Building Smarter Design Workflows with Isar Meitis
*Workshop: 2 – 6pm | Cocktail Reception: 6 – 7pm
Join the Luminaries this July for a transformative, hands-on experience led by renowned AI expert Isar Meitis, who will guide you through the cutting edge of artificial intelligence. Attendees won't just learn about the latest industry news but actively build custom AI tools on their own laptops. Time spent at the event could revolutionize your business operations. By working directly with Large Language Models (LLMs) in real time, you will develop practical solutions that can streamline marketing, boost lead generation, and master client communications. This workshop empowers you to automate complex workflows, such as sales systems and project management, ensuring you leave with a functional digital toolkit your team can immediately implement. Don't miss this opportunity to bridge the gap between AI theory and tangible business growth by taking the first step together.
This event is generously sponsored by Barrett’s Technology Solutions, Lutron , THE MART, Ferguson Home, MK Construction & Builders Inc, Scott Byron & Co., Signature Kitchen Suite, & ERDEN. Luminaries Sponsor: Chai Ming Studios
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
*2 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture (Observational Drawing)
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
Last Saturday of the Month | 3–5pm | Locations Throughout the Twin Cities
Join the ICAA Chicago-Midwest Chapter's Minnesota Subcommittee for our monthly sketching series. This series brings together local architects, designers, artists, and enthusiasts to draw from observation at historically and architecturally significant locations throughout the Twin Cities.
Drawing on the principles of classical draftsmanship, these gatherings follow in the great tradition of creatives who have studied the built environment through direct observation — because to draw is to truly see. Each session is led by a local ICAA member and includes a brief discussion on materials, choice of subject, and foundational skills such as perspective, composition, and the relationship between the built and natural landscape.
All experience levels are warmly welcomed. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to sketching, these sessions offer an opportunity to develop your eye, connect with fellow classicists, and deepen your appreciation for the architecture and urban fabric of our region.
We meet on the last Saturday of each month from 3–5pm at rotating locations around the Twin Cities. Participants are invited to continue the conversation over drinks at a no-host happy hour following each gathering.
Location and details for each session will be announced in advance. Check back for updates
Chicago ICAA Summer Social
Join the Chicago-Midwest ICAA Summer Social, hosted by our generous sponsors Bulley & Andrews.
Chicago-Midwest ICAA Garden Tour
This year’s garden tour highlights a cross section of architectural styles, both historic and contemporary. Each private garden reflects the homeowner’s personal aesthetic while offering subtle nods to classical garden traditions.
The afternoon concludes with a casual cocktail gathering, an ideal way to unwind after a day of exploration.
The tour will be led by Craig Bergmann, Owner and Award-Winning Landscape Designer of Craig Bergmann Landscape Design. With a passion rooted in the harmony of design and nature, Craig’s award-winning work reflects both innovation and a deep respect for the natural environment. His approach thoughtfully integrates landscape design with the architectural character of each property, creating spaces that are both timeless and sustainable.
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
*2 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture (Observational Drawing)
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
Last Saturday of the Month | 3–5pm | Locations Throughout the Twin Cities
Join the ICAA Chicago-Midwest Chapter's Minnesota Subcommittee for our monthly sketching series. This series brings together local architects, designers, artists, and enthusiasts to draw from observation at historically and architecturally significant locations throughout the Twin Cities.
Drawing on the principles of classical draftsmanship, these gatherings follow in the great tradition of creatives who have studied the built environment through direct observation — because to draw is to truly see. Each session is led by a local ICAA member and includes a brief discussion on materials, choice of subject, and foundational skills such as perspective, composition, and the relationship between the built and natural landscape.
All experience levels are warmly welcomed. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to sketching, these sessions offer an opportunity to develop your eye, connect with fellow classicists, and deepen your appreciation for the architecture and urban fabric of our region.
We meet on the last Saturday of each month from 3–5pm at rotating locations around the Twin Cities. Participants are invited to continue the conversation over drinks at a no-host happy hour following each gathering.
Location and details for each session will be announced in advance. Check back for updates
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
*2 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture (Observational Drawing)
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
Last Saturday of the Month | 3–5pm | Locations Throughout the Twin Cities
Join the ICAA Chicago-Midwest Chapter's Minnesota Subcommittee for our monthly sketching series. This series brings together local architects, designers, artists, and enthusiasts to draw from observation at historically and architecturally significant locations throughout the Twin Cities.
Drawing on the principles of classical draftsmanship, these gatherings follow in the great tradition of creatives who have studied the built environment through direct observation — because to draw is to truly see. Each session is led by a local ICAA member and includes a brief discussion on materials, choice of subject, and foundational skills such as perspective, composition, and the relationship between the built and natural landscape.
All experience levels are warmly welcomed. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to sketching, these sessions offer an opportunity to develop your eye, connect with fellow classicists, and deepen your appreciation for the architecture and urban fabric of our region.
We meet on the last Saturday of each month from 3–5pm at rotating locations around the Twin Cities. Participants are invited to continue the conversation over drinks at a no-host happy hour following each gathering.
Location and details for each session will be announced in advance. Check back for updates
An Inaugural Evening with the ICAA Indiana Subcommittee
The ICAA Chicago Midwest Chapter is proud to introduce its inaugural Indiana Subcommittee with a celebratory evening of networking and connection. This milestone event marks the expansion of our regional community dedicated to classical and traditional architecture and design. Join us for an unforgettable first gathering with colleagues, collaborators, and kindred spirits from across the state.
Generously sponsored by CAI Designs Showroom.
ICAA MN Monthly Sketching Series
Photo attribute by McGhiever - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0
*2 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture (Observational Drawing)
Join the ICAA Chicago-Midwest Chapter's Minnesota Subcommittee for our monthly sketching series. This series brings together local architects, designers, artists, and enthusiasts to draw from observation at historically and architecturally significant locations throughout the Twin Cities.
Drawing on the principles of classical draftsmanship, these gatherings follow in the great tradition of designers who have long studied the built environment through direct observation — because to draw is to truly see. Each session is led by a local ICAA member and includes a brief discussion on materials, choice of subject, and foundational skills such as perspective, composition, and the relationship between the built and natural landscape.
All experience levels are warmly welcomed. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or new to sketching, these sessions offer an opportunity to develop your eye, connect with fellow classicists, and deepen your appreciation for the architecture and urban fabric of our region.
We meet on the last Saturday of each month from 3–5pm at rotating locations around the Twin Cities. Participants are invited to continue the conversation over drinks at a no-host happy hour following each gathering.
We are holding our May sketching event at The Cathedral of Saint Paul. Check back for future events.
Inside the Acanthus Awards: How to Prepare a Winning Submission
What does it take to craft an award-winning submission? Find out straight from the people who know best.
Join former Acanthus Awards Jury Chairs Barbara Eberlein, ICAA National Board Member, and Steve Ekman, President of the ICAA Rocky Mountain Chapter, alongside 2025 Award of Arete & Landscape Design Award winner Alison Strickler of Hollander Design — for a can't-miss virtual panel packed with insider knowledge, expert perspective, and real-world inspiration.
Whether you're submitting for the first time or looking to take your entry to the next level, this is the conversation you don't want to miss. Walk away with fresh inspiration and the insights to help your work shine even brighter.
This is a virtual event, an access link will be provided.
Meet the Panelists
Barbara Eberlein
President and Creative Director of Eberlein Design Consultants Ltd, Barbara was formally educated in the classics, history, archaeology and art, an education that has served her enduring passion for design. With an influential voice in today’s dynamic design community, she has built a national reputation for expertise in the restoration of significant historic structures of the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. She is a sought-after lecturer on classical design, equally respected for her scholarly mastery and boundless enthusiasm for the field. Dedicated to lifelong learning, Barbara has received fellowships with distinguished programs for advanced study in England and Italy. Being an inveterate traveler constantly absorbing the aesthetic richness of the world, Barbara inspires her uniquely gifted staff in producing memorable environments expressed in a wide range of styles, always incorporating advances in materials, design and technology.
Steve Ekman
Steve Ekman is the founder and principal architect of his award-winning boutique firm, Ekman Design Studio, based in Denver. The firm specializes in custom homes, historic renovations, and restorations, using classical principles to create timeless, contextually sensitive designs - recently recognized with a 2024 Palladio Award and multiple ICAA honors.
He began his career as an Imagineer at Walt Disney, where he developed a foundation in collaboration, precedent-based design, and attention to detail, principles that continue to shape his work. His approach is further inspired by architects such as Edwin Lutyens, Julia Morgan, and Frank Lloyd Wright.
Ekman is also a dedicated advocate for classical architecture, serving as President of the ICAA Rocky Mountain Chapter and helping to establish the Classical Studies Program at the University of Colorado Denver.
Alison Strickler
As Marketing Director of Hollander Design Landscape Architects, Alison brings over 20 years of experience shaping how design firms communicate their work. In addition to leading in-house marketing, Alison advises AEC firms on content strategy and messaging. Known for a sharp focus on storytelling and visual strategy, Alison has helped Hollander Design secure more than 30 awards in the past five years, including honors from the ICAA and ASLA. Her approach to award submissions is simple: the most successful entries are both descriptive and emotive—crafted with the clarity of expertise and the resonance of a compelling story.
Spring Sketching at James J. Hill House
This sketching event, the first in a series hosted by the ICAA MN Subcommittee, includes meet-up sessions at different locations around The Twin Cities. Drawing on the principles of classical draftsmanship, each event will briefly discuss materials, choice of subject, and essential skills such as perspective and composition. Participants are invited to gather afterwards for continued conversation.
Leader: Coltan Severson, ICAA Member, Architectural Designer, Artist
Date: Saturday, April 25th 3-5pm
Location: James J. Hill House, 240 Summit Ave, St Paul, MN 55102
(Photo Attribution: By McGhiever)
Chicago-Midwest ICAA Immersive Workshop: Rendering the Classical Form
Join us for a two-day immersive workshop exploring the foundations of classical architecture through hands-on drawing and traditional rendering techniques. Designed for students and emerging professionals, the program begins on Friday with a focused study of the Tuscan Order through guided drawing, introducing the geometry, proportions, and terminology of classical design. Participants will then explore light and shade as a means of expressing architectural form.
On Saturday, the workshop continues with a full-day studio session dedicated to architectural rendering in wash, where participants will apply these techniques to complete a refined rendering of the Tuscan Order.
This program qualifies for credit toward the ICAA's Certificate in Classical Architecture. Participants who are pursuing the certificate and wish to receive credit may do so upon request.
Schedule & Learning Objectives
Friday, April 24th
9:30am - 9:45am | Introduction
9:45am-12:30pm | Elements of Classical Architecture: The Tuscan Order (5 Credits, Elements)
- Through the exercise of drawing a classical order, participants will explore in depth the terminology, geometry, and proportions of a columnar system. The components and mouldings of the order will be drawn step-by-step, illustrating the relationships and underlying geometry that unify the parts into a cohesive whole.
1:30pm-4:00pm | Light & Shade on Architectural Form (3 Credits, Light and Shade)
- In order to enhance the legibility and communicative nature of a two-dimensional line drawing, the rendering of light, shade, and shadow to describe the three-dimensional form of an architectural composition is fundamental. This session will explore the architectural conventions and qualities of light, shade, shadow, and reflected light, as well as a sensibility for how architectural geometries, volumes, planes, and profiles modulate light and shade to subsequently render form apparent.
4:00pm-5:30pm | Introduction to Architectural Rendering in Wash
- As an introduction to the history and techniques of Beaux-Arts wash rendering, participants will begin to learn the basic skills and techniques that are employed in producing a traditional wash rendering.
Saturday, April 25th
9:30am-5:00pm | Architectural Rendering in Wash (8 Credits, Wash Rendering)
- Using traditional wash techniques, participants will systematically execute the rendering of the Tuscan order using a limited watercolor palette. The skills and techniques to be utilized will include color mixing, flat washes, layered washes, gradients, and wet-on-wet washes.
16 credits towards the Certificate in Classical Architecture
