First United Methodist Church of Alexandria invites the community to a special Urban Sketching Workshop on Wednesday, November 4, celebrating the first anniversary of the church’s Urban Sketching group. Following The Gathering meal, local artists Akanksha Rudrakshi and Cal Pepper will demonstrate their sketching processes from start to finish, sharing techniques and approaches with participants of all experience levels.
Rudrakshi, an architect in Alexandria, uses watercolor and pens in her sketches, while Pepper employs a distinctive charcoal technique. Rev. Jean Sanders, FUMCA Artist-in-Residence and leader of the Urban Sketching group, will conclude the evening with a brief organizational meeting to plan for the group’s second year. Newcomers and returning participants are welcome.
The evening begins at 5 p.m. with The Gathering meal in the church’s Fellowship Hall, available for $6 per adult. The workshop begins at 6 p.m. in the Studio at First United Methodist Church, 2727 Jackson Street, Alexandria.
Launched in October 2025, the free monthly Urban Sketching group has spent the past year exploring Alexandria and Pineville through drawing and painting. Outings have included locations throughout downtown Alexandria, the Garden District, Lake Buhlow and the Alexandria Museum of Art. The group has also partnered with the Alexandria Farmers Market for a special sketching event and the Alexandria Museum of Art for a micro-tour following a sketching session.
On October 10, Urban Sketchers gathered at the Alexandria Museum of Art during its Block n’ Roll steamroller printing event. Participants sketched a variety of subjects from the museum parking lot, including the Bentley Hotel, the Jackson Street Bridge and Red River, the steamroller printing process, and the museum’s architecture.
FUMCA’s Art Ministry has also continued its Wednesday evening studio art workshops following The Gathering meal, responding to popular demand. Participants have been working on art journals and painting, creating opportunities for artistic exploration and fellowship.
In October, the ministry hosted its Fall Art & Prayer Retreat, a day of painting, silent meditation and fellowship over lunch. Participants alternated between painting together and individual reflection, exploring intuitive and expressive art while letting go of the pressure to create perfect work and embracing imperfection.
Through workshops, retreats and community outings, FUMCA’s Art Ministry provides opportunities for people to explore their creativity, share artistic experiences and build connections through the arts.
For information about the November 4 meal and weekly offerings, visit fumca.org/thegathering.
