Last Update: 01 October 2024

Table of Contents

Symposium 101

What is the Urban Sketchers International Symposium?

The Urban Sketchers International Symposium is an annual educational event organized by Urban Sketchers (USk), a nonprofit dedicated to fostering the practice of on-location observational sketching.  The goal of the Symposium is to celebrate and practice the art of on-location sketching in the host city. Each symposium offers valuable field-sketching instruction and opportunities for participants to meet new friends and learn more skills. Following our spirit of “sharing the world, one drawing at a time,” we aim to bring the Symposium to new cities and countries every year.

What happens in a Symposium?

Every Symposium is different as each host city offers different learning opportunities and experiences that are very unique to that city. Symposiums have an opening reception and a closing event for participants to meet other sketchers. Depending on types of Passes, the activities vary. Workshops, Demos and Activities, Lectures, and Sketchwalks are spread over the event. At the venue there is an Art Supplies Market which is open to the public. It features art tools, books and materials from different local and international suppliers. There is also a Silent Auction, a Raffle Draw, and daily Drink and Draw sessions.

Please see the Glossary for more information on activities.

Past Symposiums

There have been 11 Symposiums so far: Portland (2010), Lisbon (2011), Santo Domingo (2012), Barcelona (2013), Paraty (2014), Singapore (2015), Manchester (2016), Chicago (2017), Porto (2018), Amsterdam (2019), and Auckland (2023). Hong Kong was supposed to host in 2020. Due to the pandemic, it was postponed. 

The 12th Urban Sketchers International Symposium is going to be held in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 2024!

For more information on Urban Sketchers Symposiums, visit https://urbansketchers.org/usk-symposium/

About The Event

When and where is the next Urban Sketchers International Symposium?

The 12th International Urban Sketchers Symposium will be held in Buenos Aires, Argentina from 9-12 October 2024.

Where is the main venue for the Symposium?

The Symposium Hub venue will be at

SUM Juan Pablo II- Pontificia Universidad Católica (UCA)

C1107AFH, Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo 1680, C1107AFH Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina.

 https://uca.edu.ar  

Click HERE to see a map of the area. 

Where can I get news or updates on the Symposium?

To stay abreast with Symposium news, check 

Symposium Webpage
https://urbansketchers.org/usk-symposium-buenos-aires-2024/

Symposium Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/usksymposium/

Symposium FB Travel Hub group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/usksymposiumhub

What are the official hashtags?

The official hashtags are #USkBuenosAires2024 and #USkSymposium2024. To stay in the loop, follow the hashtags on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube to access the latest updates, posts and sketches from the event.

Schedule and Programming

When will the Symposium programming and schedule be revealed?

Programming and schedule was published on 3 February 2024.
Browse through our detailed Symposium Program Booklet HERE or download a PDF HERE.

Visit Urban Sketchers on YouTube to get an exclusive introduction from each of  the Symposium Workshop Instructors and Activity/Demo Presenters

Registration

When does Symposium registration start?

Symposium registration and workshops selection will be on 2 March 2024 noon / 12 pm GMT-3 Argentina time on Eventbrite. There is no Early Bird Registration.

Check your local time HERE.

When does registration close?

Registration closed on 30 September 2024, 23:59 GMT-3 Argentina time.

Sign up for an Eventbrite account. It’s free. Follow Urban Sketchers  to be notified when the event goes live. 

To expedite the process, we recommend that you have all your information entered with your Eventbrite user account, including personal and payment information.

The only way to add a saved credit/debit card to your Eventbrite account is to select the option to “Save payment details” when registering for an event. 

What type of Symposium passes can I get?

There are two types of Passes: WORKSHOP PASS and SKETCH PASS

All pass types include access to the opening & closing receptions, demo/activity, lectures, and sketchwalks.

WORKSHOP PASS

Standard Registration will start on 2 March 2024 noon / 12 pm GMT-3 Argentina time. 

The Workshop Pass includes access to the opening & closing receptions, workshops, demo/activity, lectures and sketchwalks.  The Workshop Pass will give you full access with 3 workshops with a great lineup of international instructors.

As illustrated below, you will see the all-access levels for Workshop Pass, with the corresponding fee structure.  

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What is the event Schedule for the Workshop Pass?

We have published the Schedule HERE. (click the link for a closer look or download)

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WORKSHOPS LINEUP HERE

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ACTIVITIES & DEMOS LINEUP HERE

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(*) Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Instructor for this workshop / demo is unfortunately unable to attend the International Urban Sketchers Symposium in Buenos Aires, 2024

Browse through a detailed Symposium Program Booklet online or download the PDF

WORKSHOP & DEMO SELECTION
When do I select my Workshops?

The workshop selections are only for Workshop Pass participants.  Participants would need to select all 3 workshop choices during Registration starting 2 March 2024 noon / 12 pm GMT-3 Argentina time. Check your local time HERE.

Please refer to our Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for Workshops and Demo/Activity and Editing Selections

Your last chance to  change your workshop/activity/demo selections on Eventbrite is 9 August 2024. After that, you will be able to access your information, but unable to make any changes to your programming choices.

When do I select my Demo/Activity?

The demo selection is only for Workshop Pass and Sketch Pass participants.  Participants would need to select their choice of demo during Registration on 2 March 2024, 12 noon /12 pm GMT-3 Argentina time. Check your local time HERE

The last day to change your programming choices in Eventbrite is 10 August 2024. After that, you will be able to access your information, but unable to make any changes to your programming choices.

Please refer to our Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for Workshops and Demo/Activity and Editing Selections.

Tip: Make a list of your preferred choices.  In case the ones you wanted are no longer available, you may immediately pick the next available one.

Note: There will not be a waitlist for Workshops.  You may check back again and alter your choice should the workshop you wanted becomes available again.

How long do I have to process my Registration and Workshops Selection?

The time limit on Eventbrite for Pass purchase and workshops selection is within 20 mins. The average time to complete this is 3 minutes, according to statistics.

To expedite the process, we recommend that you have all your information entered with your Eventbrite user account, including personal and payment information.

Can I make changes to my Workshops & Demo/Activity selections after Registration?

Yes. Please refer to our Step-by-Step Guide to Registering for Workshops and Demo/Activity and Editing Selections

Your last chance to make any changes to your registration is 9 August 2024.  

SKETCH PASS

With the Sketch Pass, you will have a leisurely experience. You’ll meet everyone for the morning gatherings and then explore Buenos Aires between meeting up with others for sketchwalks during the day. You’ll be able to meet all the other sketchers during the receptions, demo/activity, and social activities.

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Why is the Sketch Pass chargeable when my local sketchcrawl is free?

With the official symposium Sketch Pass, you will get access to the Opening & Closing reception, demo or activity by instructors and presenters, up to 4 guided sketchwalks and the event goody bag.

The costs that you will pay for any pass will go to the planning and organisation of the international symposium, including venue rental, furniture, catering for the receptions, engaging other services to support the event and all other overheads. There is the last Big Sketch on the last day, that is open to the public. That is free.

What is the refund policy?

Due to the need to finalize facilities, supplies, and programming, Urban Sketchers reserves the right to apply a $85 (USD) cancellation fee for all refunds. 

Refunds requested 90+ days prior to the event will receive a full refund minus the cancellation fee. (Refunds requested by or before 11:59pm Buenos Aires local time, 12 July 2024, $383.44 for a Workshop Pass / $186.44 for a Sketch Pass)

Refunds requested 90-61 days prior to the event will receive a 50% refund minus the cancellation fee. (Refunds requested by or before 11:59pm Buenos Aires local time, 10 August 2024, $149.22 for a Workshop Pass / $50.70 for a Sketch Pass)

No refunds will be offered within 60 days of the event (After 11:59pm Buenos Aires local time, 10 August 2024)

Please cancel your ticket via Eventbrite – the USk Symposium team will receive the notification and can process it according to the refund Terms and Conditions.

Email symposium@urbansketchers.org for refund requests.

Can I upgrade my pass type?

To upgrade a pass from Sketch Pass  to Workshop Pass  you must register again and cancel your original registration (subject to availability).

Email symposium@urbansketchers.org for a full refund.

Can I buy a pass for someone else?

Preferably, no.  However if it is necessary, please provide information at registration, specifically of the person attending the event.  Passes sold are non-transferable. So, please ensure that the information provided is accurate.  

Note: Any updates or information will be sent by Eventbrite to the Eventbrite user account, used to purchase the Registration (to the proxy, and not to the attendee). Therefore, be sure to check the Eventbrite log in username.

Where is my ticket?
Do my workshop/activity/demo selections appear on my printed ticket?
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No,  your printed Eventbrite ticket  will not display your workshop and demo/activity selections.

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To see your selections, login to your Eventbrite account, click your ticket to the 12th Urban Sketchers Symposium Buenos Aires 2024 ticket. You will see your selections there.

I need more help with Eventbrite. Is there a troubleshooting guide?

Yes. You can check Eventbrite’s Help Center  HERE.

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Send questions to symposium@urbansketchers.org

Eligibility

Are there ID or minimum age requirements to enter the event?

Participants must be at least 18 years of age at the time of the event. Participants under 18 years must attend with a guardian or receive special dispensation from the Organizers. Contact symposium@urbansketchers.org to discuss options for those younger than 18.

Travel Visas

Do I need a visa to travel to Argentina?

You need to obtain a visa for Argentina unless you are from one of the visa-exempt countries. Check HERE if you need a visa. For more detailed information regarding visas to Argentina, exemptions,  and requirements, visit this LINK.

Can I have recommendations of hotels in Buenos Aires?

There are many accommodation choices in Buenos Aires. Our local Symposium Team has  compiled a list of suggested a range of accommodation options for you. 

STARS RATING NAME OF HOTEL COST/ROOM/NIGHT (USD) ADD 21% TAXES DISTANCE TO VENUE CENTER(min) LINK
5
Alvear Icon
420
12
5
Hilton
415
12
5
SLS Buenos Aires Pto Madero
357
13
4
Cassa Lepage Art Hotel
315
11
4
Scala Hotel Buenos Aires
277
21
4
Regal Pacific Buenos Aires
252
24
5
725 Continental
166
22
4
Design Suites Buenos Aires
166
20
4
NH Collection Buenos Aires
164
15
4
Resort Experience in Puerto Madero
133
5
4
Esplendor by Wyndham
132
25
4
Pleno Madero
121
4
4
Patios de San telmo
99
16
4
HR Luxor Buenos Aires
92
25
4
Believe Madero Hotel
92
5
3
Viajero Hostel Buenos Aires
88
14
4
EXE Hotel Colón
71
29
3
ViaVia BsAs GuestHouse
55
7
3
América del Sur
15-45
15
3
Art Factory Hostel
17-47
15
Is there a guide on practical information that can help me prepare for my trip?

Yes, there is. USk Buenos Aires has compiled this essential guide to traveling to and around Buenos Aires, covering weather, transport, money, internet connection, and many more.

Drink and Draw

Where are the venues of the Drink and Draw sessions?

Locations for Drink and Draw are at Kraken Bar and Cafe Martinez.  Show your Symposium tag and get a 20% discount through out the duration of the Symposium. 

Kraken Bar | Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo 970, C1107AAT Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires

Cafe Martinez | Av. Alicia Moreau de Justo 1400, C1107 AFB, Cdad. Autónoma de Buenos Aires 

Contact

Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?

Send questions to symposium@urbansketchers.org

Last Update: 01 October 2024

Glossary

What is…

Workshop

Workshops are one of the main components of the USk Symposium.  

They are presented as a more formal educational experience with a smaller group  (15-17 participants), allowing for personal interaction with students. Instructors are expected to do a short demonstration, have one-on-one interaction with participants, and check on them during their exercises.

Workshops are accessible only to registered Symposium participants.

Opening & Closing Events

We will kick-start the Symposium with an Opening reception, where the USk President welcomes all participants and some light refreshments will be served.

We wrap up the weekend with a Closing celebration.  The evening starts with the Silent Auction, the Raffle Draw, and with some catering.  To end the Symposium, we will also announce the next Symposium dates and host city.

The Opening and Closing Receptions are accessible only to registered Symposium participants.

Demo

Demo will be led by all instructors we have for workshops plus a selection of presenters who specialize in certain techniques or topics.  Each Demo will be conducted for around 30-40 mins on-location in Buenos Aires or at the Symposium Hub.  Expected capacity at a Demo on-location will be 20 persons max.

Demos are accessible only to registered Symposium participants.

Activity

Activity is a hands-on 1hr presentation, where participants also have the opportunity to participate (40-50 mins presentation, 10 mins Q&A session and will only be conducted once). Group sizes will vary. 

Activities are accessible only to registered Symposium participants.

Art Supplies Market

Art Supplies Market will showcase all the symposium sponsors and supporters.  The range of products will include art materials, tools and books.  Some sponsors may host demos or talks about their product.  Stay tuned to the Symposium webpage for more information.

Art Supplies Market location will be announced later and will be open to the public.

Lecture

Lecture presentations will be 30 mins each including Q&A

Sketchwalk

The Sketchwalks during the three days of the Symposium are  accessible only to registered Symposium participants.   We end with a large Big Sketch on the afternoon of the last day and this is open to anyone who would like to sketch with us. Refer to the Schedule for Sketchwalk timing and locations. 

Sketchwalks will be hosted and managed by USk Buenos Aires.  More information regarding Sketchwalks will be published soon. Please stay tuned. 

Family Photo

Every official participant of the Symposium is encouraged to gather together for the huge ‘family photo’. Usually on the last day – the time and location will be provided in the schedule.

Silent Auction

Every sketcher can donate their original artwork for the Silent Auction that will happen on the last day before the Closing Reception.  Art works will be displayed with a bid card next to it for any interested parties to bid.  At the closing, the successful bidder has to collect the artwork with the bid card and proceed to payment with the USk Treasurer.  What everyone gets from this is a chance to own an original artwork of a fellow sketcher and funds raised from this Silent Auction will go into furthering USk’s other projects and endeavors. 

All artworks for the Silent Auction should be submitted for cataloging.  Stay tuned for announcements regarding when and and where to submit.

Raffle Draw

The Raffle Draw is also another fundraiser effort where tickets at the Symposium can be bought from the Fundraising team, for a chance to win something at the Draw.  In the past, prizes had included art materials, equipment and books.  The top prize for the Raffle Draw is a FREE Workshop Pass to the next Symposium.  

Drink and Draw

Drink and Draw is not an official Symposium activity.  It is an after Symposium get-together amongst sketchers and friends.  The host city will recommend a location where sketchers and friends can hang out for a drink at the end of the day and enjoy some sketching time amongst friends.  

Location/s for Drink and Draw will be announced later.

No sign up required.  It is a public event and all food or beverages  are at your own expense.

Last Update: 01 October 2024