Sketch Your Heart Out with Symposium-inspired USk Prompts All of February!

Dive in to the vibrant and culturally rich city of Buenos Aires through our daily USk Prompts this February.

Each prompt is inspired by a fascinating fun fact about this year’s incredible Symposium location.

Tune in!  Using the prompts, re-discover and sketch your city while learning a fun fact about Buenos Aires everyday.

Let’s make February a month of art and discovery. Make sure to follow and tag #USkfeb24prompts on Instagram and Facebook.

We can’t wait to see your sketches and what we all have in common coming from different corners of the world. Happy sketching!

Get your daily dose of new fun facts here about Buenos Aires. Inspired by #USkfeb24prompts

1 Feb  HISTORICAL MONUMENT

Erected in 1936, the Obelisco de Buenos Aires (Obelisk of Buenos Aires) is a national historic monument and icon of Buenos Aires. This famous landmark is also the icon featured on the USk International Symposium Buenos Aires logo. 

2 Feb  WEATHER VANE

In Buenos Aires, where ‘Buenos Aires’ means ‘Fair Winds’ or ‘Good Airs’ in Spanish, you might find a unique weather vane capturing the essence of its name, swirling around with the city’s cool vibes and pleasant breezes.

Established on 2 February 1536 by Pedro de Mendoza, this vibrant metropolis carries a rich history, where the past and present blend in its enchanting skyline.

3 Feb  STEAK / STEAKHOUSE

Argentina is renowned for serving some of the finest steaks in the world & Buenos Aires is famous for its grass-fed beef often served at parrillas (steakhouses).

The city’s love affair with beef is legendary and every corner boasts a parrilla offering succulent cuts grilled to perfection. From the famed ribeye to the mouthwatering sirloin, Buenos Aires invites you to a culinary tango where every bite is a celebration of flavour.

 

4 Feb  FASHION

Buenos Aires is an important regional fashion capital and was appointed as the first UNESCO City of Design in 2005.

A fashion-forward tidbit – the city’s sense of style isn’t confined to runways. In the bustling neighborhood of Palermo Soho, street art isn’t just on walls but also on mannequins! In Buenos Aires, every street is  a catwalk, everyday is a fashion show!

 

5 Feb  WATERSIDE

Puerto Madero, in the Buenos Aires Central Business District, is one of the most successful recent waterfront renewal projects in the world.

This revitalized waterside district is a blend of modernity and history, seamlessly intertwining sleek skyscrapers with the remnants of vintage port structures.

It offers a unique dining experience with some restaurants situated on refurbished cargo ships. Behind the cityscape lies an unexpected natural treasure, Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve, a sprawling green haven. 

 

 

6 Feb  PARK / BOTANICAL GARDEN

Buenos Aires is home to a kaleidoscope of parks and green spaces. Outside Japan, Buenos Aires Japanese Gardens is the largest of its type in the world. 

In addition to the Japanese Gardens at Parque Tres de Febrero, blooming wonders at Bosques de Palermo, a century-old haven with its lakes at Parque Centenario, a lush refuge at Jardin Botanico, a biodiverse flora and fauna at Costanera Sur Ecological Reserve, and many more green sanctuaries await locals and visitors alike.

 

7 Feb  FOOTBALL 

Football/futbol isn’t just a sport but a way of life in Buenos Aires, featuring no fewer than 24 professional teams – it has the highest concentration of teams of any city in the world. 

At every corner, there are children and adults playing soccer in “potreros” of free spaces or parks.  Argentina was world champion three times (1978, 1986, and 2022) and has celebrated every sporting victory in futbol at the Obelisk, the traditional epicentre of sporting celebrations.  

Diego Maradona, born in a county south of Buenos Aires, is widely hailed as one of the sport’s greatest players of all time. 

8 Feb BOAT / FERRY 

Anchored in history as a bustling port, not only La Boca’s buildings are adorned with color but also the boats that gracefully float the Riachuelo River. 

Its vibrant hues echo the diverse backgrounds that have converged in this maritime corner of Buenos Aires. It tells a tale of immigrants, who over the years, infused the neighborhood with a rich tapestry of cultures. 

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9 Feb BOOKS / BOOKSTORE

Buenos Aires is a book lover’s paradise with more bookstores per capita than any other city in the world. Home to hundreds of bookstores, public libraries, and cultural associations, it is sometimes called “the city of books”.

The Buenos Aires International Book Fair has been a major event in the city since the first fair in 1975. Buenos Aires was designated as the World Book Capital for the year 2011 by UNESCO. 

One gem, El Ateneo Grand Splendid, is a breathtaking bookstore housed in a former theater, offering readers the chance to immerse themselves in literature surrounded by the grandeur of its historic setting. 

10 Feb THEATRE

Buenos Aires is sometimes referred to as the “Paris of South America” for its imposing palaces, passages, and hidden corners of French influence.  

Corrientes street, their “Broadway”, is where the first theaters appeared and today is full of commercial and underground theaters. The city has the busiest live theater industry in South America and the largest concentration of active theaters in Latin America.

11 Feb BICYCLE

Buenos Aires has constructed over 110 km (68.35 mi) of protected bicycle lanes supporting a bicycle sharing program of over 850 bicycles.

With an extensive network of bike lanes, public bike-sharing programs, and Sunday’s ‘Ciclovia’, where major streets close to traffic for cyclists and pedestrians, the city has become a haven for bike enthusiasts, promoting eco-friendly transportation and a healthy lifestyle in its bustling urban landscape.

12 Feb PINK BUILDING

The Casa Rosada, often called the ‘Pink House,’ is not just the seat of Argentina’s government; it also holds a place in pop culture. Its characteristic color is baby pink and it has been declared a National Historic Monument of Argentina.

Its iconic pink hue likely comes from a mix of cow’s blood and lime used during its construction to prevent damage from humidity.  

Additionally, the balcony of the Casa Rosada is famous for being the spot where Eva Perón addressed the crowds, immortalized in the musical ‘Evita.’ The vibrant color and historical significance make it a symbol of both political power and cultural heritage in Argentina.

13 Feb GRID

The urban design of Buenos Aires is based on a rectangular grid pattern called the ‘Manzana de la Ciudad’. A rectangular grid pattern provides 110-meter (361 ft)-long square blocks named manzanas.  Streets run east to west and avenues run north to south.

It was inspired by the design principles of European cities. Interestingly, it’s not just the streets that follow a grid – the city blocks (manzanas) themselves are also designed in a grid pattern. 

This meticulous layout not only provides a sense of order but also makes it relatively easy to navigate the city’s diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character and charm.

14 Feb  SHOP WINDOW

Fileteado Porteño is a traditional art that originated in Buenos Aires towards the end of the 19th century that combines scrollwork and letters. It is frequently spotted on shop windows, signage and murals.

Characterized by bold colors, flowing lines, and elaborate patterns, this lively and dynamic art form has transcended traditional boundaries, transforming everyday objects into vibrant canvases that reflect the lively spirit of Argentina’s capital city.

15 Feb  FARMLAND

The Pampas are South American low grasslands that cover more than 1,200,000 square kilometres (460,000 sq mi), including Buenos Aires and other Argentine provinces.  They are not just the breadbasket of Argentina but also a major hub for livestock farming. 

Its extensive size, fertile soil, and cultural role make it one of the world’s most significant agricultural areas, supporting a diverse range of crops and sustaining agricultural livelihoods for generations.

16 Feb  PYRAMID

The Pirámide de Mayo, located at the hub of the Plaza de Mayo, is the oldest national monument in the City of Buenos Aires. Built in 1811, it was constructed to celebrate the first anniversary of the May Revolution, a crucial event leading to Argentina’s independence from Spanish rule.

The pyramid features four stacked platforms adorned with sculptures and plaques. The structure symbolizes the principles of liberty, independence, and solidarity.

Interestingly, it was initially located at the intersection of Peru and Alsina streets. In 1856, it was dismantled and relocated to its current position in Plaza de Mayo.

17 Feb  TALLEST BUILDING

The Kavanagh building was once the tallest skycraper in Latin America when it was completed in 1936. It was declared a National Historic Monument by the Argentine government in 1999.

Its unique blend of art deco and neo-Gothic styles not only captures the city’s rich history but also stands as a testament to Argentina’s engineering innovation. It continues to be a timeless muse, connecting the past with the vibrant present of this dynamic cityscape.

18 Feb  CLOCK TOWER

Torre Monumental (Spanish for “Monumental Tower”) in Buenos Aires, formerly known as Torre de los Ingleses (“Tower of the English”), was a gift from the British community to commemorate the centennial of the May Revolution in 1910.

Standing at around 67 meters (220 feet) tall, the tower features a clock with four faces, each measuring over 3 meters (10 feet) in diameter.  The timepiece was manufactured by the same company responsible for London’s iconic Big Ben—Gillett & Johnston.

The tower’s materials made a transatlantic voyage from England to Buenos Aires, contributing to its unique architectural charm. Blending English Tudor and French Beaux-Arts styles, its design adds a touch of European elegance to Buenos Aires’ skyline.

19 Feb  STREET ART

Often hailed as one of the world’s street art capitals,  Buenos Aires is where the city’s walls serve as a canvas for both local and international artists. Murals and graffiti are considered “an everyday occurrence,” and have become part of the urban landscape.

Some street art in Buenos Aires tells poignant stories about the country’s history and political struggles. Murals often serve as visual narratives, reflecting the spirit of resilience and activism.

Buenos Aires is home to the Museo de Arte Urbano, a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing the evolution of street art in the city. It features works by prominent local and international artists.

20 Feb  AIR CONDITIONING

In 1936, the 120-meter-tall (395 ft) Kavanagh Building was inaugurated. The building, with its 12 elevators also housed the world’s first central air conditioning system.

In Buenos Aires’ eclectic architecture, air conditioning units often become integrated into the design. It’s a testament to the city’s ability to blend functionality with aesthetics.

Buenos Aires is not just known for its warm climate but also for its passionate tango scene. Air conditioning plays a crucial role in providing a cool atmosphere in the city’s tango clubs, allowing dancers and enthusiasts to enjoy the sultry moves without breaking a sweat.

21 Feb  WOMEN

In the district of Puerto Madero every street is named after women. This neighborhood pays tribute to some extraordinary women who showed great courage, in many cases having to resist the social norms of their times.  

The street art scene in Buenos Aires often features powerful feminist murals that celebrate women’s strength, resilience, and contributions to society. These vibrant artworks serve as both expressions of creativity and statements of empowerment.

Buenos Aires is home to numerous women’s spaces, organizations, and initiatives that promote gender equality, providing platforms for advocacy, support, and collaboration among women in various fields.

22 Feb  HORSES

Argentina has a strong connection to gaucho culture, and horses play a central role in this traditional way of life. Gauchos, skilled horsemen and ranchers, are an iconic symbol of Argentine culture, embodying the spirit of the Pampas.

Horses often feature prominently in Buenos Aires’ art and sculptures. From statues celebrating equestrian prowess to murals capturing the spirit of the Pampas, the city’s public spaces pay homage to the beauty and strength of horses.

This love for horses can be experienced in several ways in Buenos Aires: horse racing, polo and pato, a kind of basketball played on horseback that was declared the national game in 1953.

23 Feb  SHOPPING MALL

Buenos Aires boasts shopping malls that are not only retail spaces but also architectural wonders. Galerías Pacífico is renowned for its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture and frescoed dome.

The company name derived from the fact that its intention was to operate a train service linking Buenos Aires and Valparaíso in Chile, thereby giving access to the Pacific Ocean. From that time onwards the building became known as Edificio Pacífico.

Shopping malls in Buenos Aires often blend retail with cultural experiences. They integrate shopping, dining, entertainment, crafts, and cultural events, making it a vibrant space for locals and tourists.

24 Feb  LOCAL DRINK

Mate is often referred to as the national drink of Argentina, as it holds a special and integral place in the country’s cultural traditions and social rituals.

It is an invigorating, traditional drink made by steeping dried leaves from the yerba mate plant in hot water. The beverage is typically served in a hollowed-out gourd (also called a mate) and consumed through a metal straw known as a bombilla. 

The drink is known for its slightly bitter and herbal flavor, and it contains caffeine, theobromine, and other stimulants. It is not only a beverage but also a symbol of friendship and hospitality in many communities.

25 Feb  CEMETERY

The Recoleta district is known for its elegant architecture and the famous Recoleta Cemetery, the final resting place of Eva Perón and other renowned personalities of Argentine culture.

It’s a captivating open-air museum with elaborate mausoleums resembling small chapels and sculptures from the beginning of the last century and more than two thousand stained glass windows in its imposing mausoleums.

A destination where history, art, and the eternal intertwine, inviting visitors to explore the stories etched in stone and pay homage to Argentina’s cultural heritage.

26 Feb  JAZZ

Buenos Aires hosts many musical festivals including the Buenos Aires Jazz Festival every November. Held since 2002, the festival gathers about 70,000 attendees and nearly 500 musicians – local and international. 

Jazz festivals contribute to community engagement, with many events organized in collaboration with local businesses, schools, and cultural institutions. This fosters a sense of community and shared appreciation for the arts.

While the festivals are annual highlights, Buenos Aires maintains a vibrant jazz scene throughout the year. Jazz clubs and live music venues regularly host performances, ensuring that jazz enthusiasts can enjoy the music regularly.

27 Feb  LOCAL MARKET

San Telmo is the oldest neighborhood in Buenos Aires. Cafes, tango parlors and antique bohemian shops line the cobblestone streets, which are often filled with artists and dancers. 

The large San Telmo indoor market has stalls offering everything from antiques to fresh fruit and spices. The popular San Telmo Market runs the length of Calle Defensa on Sundays – just over a mile!

The dynamic nature of markets ensures that no two visits are the same. Different times of the day and week bring varying atmospheres, making it an endless source of inspiration for a sketching community.

28 Feb  BRIDGE

The Puente de la Mujer (Women’s Bridge) is the newest link between the east and west docks of Puerto Madero. It is a rotating footbridge and a swing bridge, depicting a couple dancing tango and reflecting the city’s passion for dance. 

Designed by the renowned Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, the Puente de la Mujer is a masterpiece of architectural elegance. Calatrava is known for his innovative and avant-garde designs, and this bridge is no exception.

Many of Buenos Aires’ bridges have historical significance, as they were vital for the city’s development and growth. They facilitated transportation and commerce, connecting different neighborhoods and regions of the city.

29 Feb  TANGO

Tango is a historical dance and part of Buenos Aires culture and passion. It has been recognised in the UNESCO list of Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2009. 

A social dance, Tango originated in the 1880s in the working-class port neighborhoods of Buenos Aires. It brought people from different backgrounds together.

It has spread beyond Argentina and gained international popularity. Tango festivals and dance communities exist worldwide, and dancers from various cultures embrace and interpret the dance in their unique ways. The World tango dance tournament is usually held in Buenos Aires in August.  

The bandoneón, a type of concertina, is a central instrument in tango music. Its distinctive sound adds emotional depth and character to tango compositions.