It all began in Italy…

Under the Loggia at the Basilica Palladiana, Vicenza, Italy, 2025

During a summer in the early ‘90s, as an architecture student, I had the opportunity to study in Vicenza, a northern Italian city in the Veneto region.  Much of my time was spent training my eyes to see—and my hands to record—the beauty before me. 

With a pencil and a travel watercolor set in hand, my journey into architectural watercolor began.

Years later, as a licensed architect, I continued to sketch as an essential part of the design process. Even in an era of computer-generated images, there is something invaluable about about a quick, hand-drawn, expressive sketch as it can evoke feelings and ideas and capture a sense of place.

Eventually, my path led to teaching, where I had the joy of sharing my appreciation for architecture, art, and classical design with high school students.

Today I return to the pastime I loved so much: making art about architecture. Once again, I find myself with pencil and watercolor in hand, looking closely at the places around me and recording the architectural details that capture my attention.

Through my work, I hope to share that sense of discovery—and an appreciation of the beauty, craftsmanship, and enduring character of architecture shaped over time.

To art, architecture, and timeless beauty!

~Kerri Pleban