CIEE HS Summer Abroad: Drawing & Culture in Edinburgh

Immerse yourself in the art of drawing in Edinburgh, Scotland’s storybook city of castles and gardens.

Take your artistic practice to the next level in this intensive drawing program focused on observational skills, technical mastery, and creative expression. Edinburgh’s dramatic landscapes, historic architecture, and thriving arts scene provide endless inspiration for artists looking to deepen their craft. Alongside fellow Global Navigators, you’ll create a portfolio of four original works and showcase your artistic growth in a final exhibition.

Through studio-based lessons, you’ll strengthen your observational skills while exploring core drawing techniques and concepts, including charcoal, gesture and figure drawing, perspective, and positive and negative space. You’ll also learn to think like an artist through sketchbook work, collaborative exercises, peer critiques, and guided discussions about artistic processes and creative intention.

There will be plenty of time to soak up Edinburgh’s unique atmosphere, wandering cobblestone streets, and admiring Edinburgh Castle. Excursions include exploring the charming neighborhood of Stockbridge and the Royal Botanic Garden, as well as visiting The Chocolatarium to create your own Scottish-inspired chocolates. Your summer in Edinburgh will sharpen your skills, deepen your creative confidence, and help prepare you for the next step in your artistic journey.