Last Update: 9 April 2026
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 13 Symposiums so far: Portland (2010), Lisbon (2011), Santo Domingo (2012), Barcelona (2013), Paraty (2014), Singapore (2015), Manchester (2016), Chicago (2017), Porto (2018), Amsterdam (2019), Auckland (2023), Buenos Aires(2024), and Poznan (2025). Hong Kong was supposed to host in 2020. Due to the pandemic, it was postponed.
The 14th Urban Sketchers International Symposium is going to be held in Toulouse, France!
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 14th International Urban Sketchers Symposium will be held in Toulouse, France from 15-18 July 2026.
Why Toulouse?
Known as La Ville Rose, or The Pink City, Toulouse glows with the warmth of its terracotta brick buildings and southern sunlight. The 4th largest city in France, it is both historic and forward-looking, home to landmarks like the Capitole and Basilica of Saint-Sernin, as well as aerospace pioneers Airbus and the Cité de l’Espace.
For sketchers, the city is alive with inspiration: bustling markets, riverside promenades, quiet cloisters, and lively plazas. With over 2,000 hours of sunshine a year and a spirit of joie de vivre, Toulouse is a city made for sketching, sharing, and savoring.
Where is the main venue for the Symposium?
The Hub of the USk Symposium 2026 will be at the Pierre Baudis Convention Center!
Address: 11 Esplanade Compans Cafarelli 31000, Toulouse, France
Click on image to enlarge.
Spacious, surrounded by Compans Park, and just a few minutes’ walk from the historic city center, this venue is the perfect home for the 2026 Symposium.
Pierre Baudis will become our home base for four vibrant days.
See you in 2026!
Where can I get news or updates on the Symposium?
To stay abreast with Symposium news, check
Symposium Webpage
https://urbansketchers.org/usk-symposium-toulouse-2026/
Symposium Instagram
https://www.instagram.com/usksymposium/
Symposium FB Travel Hub group
https://www.facebook.com/groups/usksymposiumhub
In what language is the Symposium conducted?
Urban Sketchers International Symposiums, wherever they are hosted, are always conducted in English.
What are the official hashtags?
The official hashtags are #USkToulouse2026 and #USkSymposium2026. 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 faculty lineup be released?
The faculty lineup was released on 7 December 2025.
Check out the announcement HERE!
Please click on image to enlarge.
When will the Symposium programming and schedule be revealed?
Registration
When does Symposium registration start?
Registration opens on 28 February 2026, Saturday, 12noon CET, on Eventbrite.
Check out your local time HERE. Registered participants can pick their Workshop and Activity/Demo selections. There is no Early Bird Registration.
Meanwhile, sign up for an Eventbrite account. It’s free. Follow Urban Sketchers to be notified when the event goes live.
To expedite the process, 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.
How many tickets are available for Workshop Pass and Sketch Pass?
- There are 22 WP-4 Workshop Passes with 4 workshops
- 115 WP-3 Workshop Passes with 3 workshops,
- 158 WP-2 Workshop Passes with 2 workshops,
- 150 (WP-1) Workshop Passes with 1 workshop
- There are 205 (SP) Sketch Passes
WORKSHOP PASS
The Workshop Pass includes access to:
- The Opening & Closing receptions
- 1, 2, 3, or 4 workshops
- For WP-4 holders: Participation in the Big Crit
- 1 Activity or Demo
- Lectures: Available on a first come, first served basis until lecture space meets capacity
- All Sketchwalks depending on the compatibility with selected Workshops, Activity or Demo
A maximum of 16 participants are allotted for each workshop. This ensures the best learning experience.
What are the types and prices of Workshop Passes?
You can choose from four Workshop Pass options, allowing you 1, 2, 3, or 4 workshops led by top international instructors.
- WP-4 (4 workshops) USD 650 + USD 45.44 EventbriteTicket Fee
- WP-3 (3 workshops) USD 550 + USD 38.73 EventbriteTicket Fee
- WP-2 (2 workshops) USD 430 + USD 30.68 EventbriteTicket Fee
- WP-1 (1 workshop) USD 320 + USD 23.31 Eventbrite Ticket Fee
The table below presents the Workshop Pass all-access levels and fees, followed by a comparison with the Sketch Pass.
Symposium Pass Release Schedule
Registration opens 28 February 2026 noon/12pm CET.
This year we have a Symposium Pass Release Schedule as follows:
- WP-4 (4 workshops) and Sketch Passes are on sale from noon/12:00 CET
- WP-3 (3 workshops) are on sale from 12:30 CET
- WP-2 (2 workshops) are on sale from 13:00 CET
- WP-1 (1 workshop) are on sale from 13:30 CET
A Registration and Ticketing Tutorial on USk’s YouTube channel is scheduled on 8 February 2026, 20:00 CET. Sign up to get notified on YouTube, to follow live or see the recording HERE.
Important: During the registration process, the system will allow you to select four workshops. Please select only the number of workshops your pass entitles you to. If additional selections are made, the extras will be deleted.
When do I select my Workshops?
The workshop selections are only for Workshop Pass participants. Participants will be able to select 4, 3, 2, or 1 workshop choices during Registration starting 28 February 2026 noon / 12 pm CET. Check the Symposium Pass Release Schedule. Check your local time HERE.
Your last chance to change your workshop/activity/demo selections on Eventbrite is 15 May 2026, 23.59 CET. After that, you will be able to access your information, but unable to make any changes to your programming choices. Cancellation and refunds end.
Is there a waiting list?
There is no waiting list. We do recommend that you check in regularly to see if there are Symposium Passes, Workshops and Activity/Demo selections available.
When do I select my Activity/Demo?
The Activity/Demo selection is only for Workshop Pass and Sketch Pass participants. Participants can select their choice of one Activity/Demo during Registration beginning 28 February 2026, 12 noon /12 pm CET. Check the Symposium Pass Release Schedule. Check your local time HERE.
Please note that a maximum of 17 participants are allotted for each Activity/Demo.
Your last chance to change your workshop/activity/demo selections on Eventbrite is 15 May 2026, 23.59 CET. After that, you will be able to access your information, but unable to make any changes to your programming choices.
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.
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 & Activity/Demo selections after Registration?
Yes. Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide for Registering for Workshops and Activity/Demo | Editing Workshop and Activity/Demo Selections.
Your last chance to make any changes to your registration is 15 May 2026, 23.59 CET.
SKETCH PASS
The Sketch Pass includes access to:
- The Opening & Closing receptions
- 1 Activity or Demo
- Lectures: Available on a first come-first served basis until lecture space meets capacity
- All Sketchwalks
How much is a Sketch Pass?
Sketch Pass: USD 180 + USD 13.92 Eventbrite Ticket Fee
The table below outlines what’s included in the Sketch Pass and how it compares to the Workshop Pass.
For Demo/Activity selection, read When do I select my Demo/Activity?
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 receptions, one demo or activity by instructors and presenters, 6 lectures, up to 6 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.
The Welcome Sketchwalk on the first day and the Big Sketch on the final day are both free and open to the public.
Payment & Refunds
What are the payment options accepted on Eventbrite?
You can check out using credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, SEPA, Sofort, IDEAL, and Bancontact.
What is the refund policy?
Due to the need to finalize facilities, supplies, and programming arrangements for the Symposium, refund requests made before 15 May 2026, 23:59 CET are eligible for a refund, minus the US$85 (USD) cancellation fee and the non-refundable Eventbrite service fee.
Please note that the Eventbrite service fee is non-refundable, as it is charged and retained directly by the ticketing platform.
No refunds will be issued after 15 May 2026, 23:59 CET.
To request a refund, please cancel your ticket through Eventbrite. The USk Symposium team will receive the notification and process the eligible refund according to these terms.
Can I upgrade my pass type?
To upgrade from a Sketch Pass to a Workshop Pass, please register again if Workshop Passes are still available and cancel your original registration. Email symposium@urbansketchers.org to receive a full refund of your original pass, minus the cancellation fee ($85 USD).
Check our refund policy above.
Can I buy a pass for someone else?
Preferably, no. However if it is necessary, please make sure you have access to the attendee’s Evenbrite account. Purchase the pass in their name while logged in to their Eventbrite account. 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?
Please check the troubleshooting tips on Eventbrite, here https://www.eventbrite.com/support/articles/en_US/Troubleshooting/where-are-my-tickets?lg=en_US
Do my workshop/activity/demo selections appear on my printed ticket?
No, your printed Eventbrite ticket will not display your workshop and demo/activity selections.
To see your selections, login to your Eventbrite account, click your ticket to the 14th Urban Sketchers Symposium Toulouse 2026 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 France?
Click here for official French government information about types of visas to France. More information can be found here . France is a European Union member so EU citizens may enter the territory on the basis of a valid travel document.
Travel
Where can I book train tickets to and from Toulouse?
Use the SNCF widget below to find and book train connections, whether you’re arriving in Toulouse for the Symposium, heading out on day trips during the event, or continuing your journey afterward. Just enter your departure point and dates to see routes, times, and prices right here on the page.
It’s an easy way to stay on track, take in the French landscape, and follow wherever your sketchbook leads you next.
Contact
Where can I contact the organizer with any questions?
Send questions to symposium@urbansketchers.org
Last Update: 9 April 2026
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 (16 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 Toulouse or at the Symposium Hub. Expected capacity at a Demo on-location will be 17 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.
Lecture
Lecture presentations will be 30 mins each including Q&A. Lectures are accessible to all registered Symposium participants.
Big Crit
In this structured session, a number of workshop instructors will form a circle or line of tables, each with a seat for themselves and a guest. Each participant with sketchbook in hand will cycle around the tables, receiving a quick critique of their work from 5 different members of the crit panel – not unlike speed dating! This opportunity with a variety of teachers will provide a wealth of useful advice and feedback. Every ten minutes, participants will move on to the next table with the next panelist until their 5 sessions have been completed.
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.
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 Toulouse. 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: 9 April 2026