An architectural illustrator is an artist who creates imagery for the design professional that accurately portray the details of an architectural project. These images are used to communicate design ideas to clients, owners, committees, customers, and the general public.
About
Architectural illustrators are hired to put complex concepts or objects into graphical form. The artist uses artwork to turn small details into visual renderings. This field is based on the plan, design, and construction of numerous structures. Illustrations created are typically two-dimensional and may include images or animations. Technical draftsmanship and precise use of visual perspective are often prominent features in architectural illustration, although within these restrictions some artists such as William Walcot were known for a more fluid impressionistic style.
They help put plans into a more digestible format for individuals without architectural expertise and generally work as an intermediary between an architect and their client. These architectural illustrations and models are often used during client presentations, fundraising events, sales pitches, and meetings regarding permits.
History
The act of using pictures in this way, conveying the form of a structure visually rather than just instructions or descriptions written down, was practiced as early as the 12th century. In the 12th century most of the examples of architectural illustrations were of varying structures talked about in the Bible and were for the purpose of conveying what they were talking about when describing said structures.
More recently architectural illustrator associations have been founded in order to help publicize and support the hiring of architectural illustrators to help communicate potential ideas. Such associations have been founded as early as 1975.
Software
Computer based software such as SketchUp and other products produced by a variety of publishers can be used by architectural illustrators in creating architectural renderings. Using these different software architectural illustrators can create a 3D environment for clients to digitally explore.
See also
Architectural Illustrator Associations
- The American Society of Architectural Illustrators (ASAI)
- New York Society of Renderers
- The Society of Architectural Illustration (SAI)
References
- ^ "The Facts about an Architectural Illustrator". ArticleTree. Archived from the original on 23 July 2013. Retrieved 7 February 2013.
- ^ Reader, The MIT Press (2023-06-12). "The Medieval Origins of Architectural Drawing". The MIT Press Reader. Retrieved 2024-12-02.
- "Society of Architectural Illustration - Illustration History". www.illustrationhistory.org. Retrieved 2024-12-02.
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