If architects are paying attention to the unavoidable main focus of their profession, they simply won't have time in one lifetime to acquire the necessary skills. The hand-drawn rendering reaches back to the Master Class practice, where a student converses and works creatively with a leading practitioner. High end computer graphics and virtual images lead us from today into an exciting future. The original meaning of the word 'illustrate' was 'to enlighten intellectually, culturally or spiritually'. The notion of the illustrator as an illuminator is still current.
Many factors contribute to the demand for architectural illustration.
Today's global practices of architects, planners, landscape architects and interior designers rely increasingly on visualization services requiring artistic and CAD-based skills in space visualization, signage and environmental graphics, photography and modelling. A university degree program in architectural illustration will ideally explore a variety of attitudes about art, connect to aspects of architectural education and building technology, and lead the student through a sequence of courses, events and experiences that develop individual potential in terms of specific illustration practice. With or without a senior thesis project and internship, it is essential that the program in architectural illustration emphasize the essential need for each student to create an outstanding portfolio to demonstrate the meaningful expression of creative ideas, talents and professional competence. The curriculum-centered artistic skills in graphic design, sculpture, architectural models and photography are ultimate communicated to leading global practices through a personal, creative portfolio. The profession of Architectural Illustration challenges creative individuals who enjoy working with architects and other design professionals, who are interested in an increasing understanding of the design and building process, who recognize the value of high quality design, and who are proactive in applying a complete visual communications spectrum to achieve the design goals.