We SeeTheLines Studio

Private community
59 members
$39/month
By Alán Ramiro, 415K @seethelines

Years ago, I watched a senior architect sigh and say, "I remember when I used to sketch." I decided I would never lose my connection to sketching, and that I would help others find and keep theirs.

So I left architecture and sketched my way around the world. With little time and changing light, I needed a better way to work. Necessity sharpens invention, and that is how the shadows-first method came to be.

The first layer is all about atmosphere. Follow the light and begin painting. When you see the lines, you don't have to draw them all. My sketching became looser, more fun, and more alive.

Inside Studio, I teach this method step by step, alongside many other techniques, whether you are just starting or coming back after years away.

Someday is no day. Come sketch with us today.

What you get inside Studio

The course library of 60+ workshops
New workshop series added every month
Best of 2025 and 2026, curated collections for beginner to advanced
The Shadows-First Course
Resources with art supply discounts and technique downloads
A Studio space to share your sketches, ask questions, and get feedback from the community
Challenges to keep you sketching

Atelier 20 seats

Want to work with me directly? Atelier adds live workshops and my written feedback on your sketches.

Everything in Studio
Live workshops each month
Written feedback on your sketches
Limited to 20 seats for personalized learning

$115/month or $297/quarter (save $48)

Join Atelier →

Your early access

The first 100 members get a special founding members price of $39/month.

59 of 100 founding spots taken 41 left

      All reviews
 
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  Excellent5.0109 reviews
 5.0
 Excellent109 reviews
 
    
 Excellent5.087 reviews
 5.0
 Excellent87 reviews
 
    
 Excellent5.022 reviews
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 Excellent22 reviews
 
 
 
    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Claire O'Gallagher 
 26 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +2
I started with See the Lines as a complete beginner, and it's been really amazing to have sketching become such a big part of my life. I've taken the skills and confidence from Alan's classes and travelled to sketchmeets, joined a local USk chapter and even exhibited work this year. I love being part of the community and seeing other people flourish and grow, it's such a positive place.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Jackie Bleisch 
 25 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +4
I’ve been a member of Alan’s sketch group going on 3 years and each session has kept me engaged and inspired for more. His style speaks to me and he has a unique vision on his interpretations of scenes. His manner of instruction is organized and  leads me step by step on his process. I especially like how he incorporates shadows and how the lights and darks are rendered.
I’ve experienced being a participant both online and in person; joining two of his travel tours. The sketchers I’ve met with the community Seethelines has built; are the most inspiring and talented humans who’ve become lifetime friends.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Rachel Wilson 
 24 October 2026
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +3
Alán’s classes take us  to places where color and aesthetics are always surprising and lovely to draw. The method of shadows first helps bring these images alive. The tutorials are excellent.  I’m in my first year of sketching and it’s been a real joy.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lilian Delgado Espejel 
 23 April 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +2
I've been sketching for 3 years and finally with this course I can say I have improved. Alán is a great maestro, and more important the infrastructure is well equipped to serve via Zoom.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Martin Inderbitzin 
 3 April 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alan is a very gifted painter and teacher. It is fun and very inspiring to join his online classes. Can highly recommend it!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Pamela Enz 
 28 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +10
We started sketching when we traveled right after COVID around 2022. It was a way to get out of the quarantine and be out of doors. Neither of us had ever done watercolors before but we had sketches quite a lot.

We’ve taken classes abroad, Mexico, Italy, Scotland, and Portugal so we can learn different processes from different artists. Alan’s online program attracted us because he is traveling to places we have never been. It is also fun, and challenging, to try different methods too. We both sketch regularly where we live, in Minnesota. As we are sketching we often say, “How would Alan approach this?” Or “if we approach this like….. Alan would like that!”  It makes it a lot of fun.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Young Hash 
 18 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +4
I’ve had the pleasure of sketching weekly with Alan Ramiro since January, and it’s been a fun  experience. Alan is an incredibly talented urban and travel watercolor artist who brings a unique perspective to his teaching. His ability to break down complex concepts, especially perspectives, has made a noticeable difference in my own sketching skills.

Beyond just technique, Alan has helped me embrace the imperfections in my work. Since starting to sketch with him, I’ve learned to let go of the need for perfection because we sketch and paint together live on a limited 2-hour timeframe. I have learned to move faster on the live sessions. If a sketch doesn’t turn out the way I envisioned—whether it’s the shadows not being quite right, or the lines looking a little off—I’ve learned to accept it and move on. This shift in mindset has allowed me to enjoy the process more and not get bogged down by the small details. I no longer feel pressured to create “perfect” artwork, and I’ve found a new sense of freedom and joy in sketching. I look forward to my weekly sketches and watercolor sessions with Alan—they've become two hours where I can truly be in the moment and unwind from the stresses of day-to-day life.

Alan also encourages us to experiment with different techniques and styles, all while building a supportive and welcoming community. He provides individualized feedback on our work, which has helped me use these tips to improve on my techniques.

If you're looking to improve your skills, especially in urban sketching and watercolor, Alan is an amazing artist and instructor who encourages growth both in technique and in self-expression.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tamer Qsoos 
 10 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +1
This was a great sketching course with Alan. I learned a lot about perspective, colours, and shading during the first few sessions, and I could see my progress from week to week. Alan shared all the techniques to help me master and improve my sketches. Even though I have no prior drawing skills, I'm pleased that I was able to create these sketches in a few of weeks. Alan's seven-minute sketch was especially useful for warming up and seeing the lines. I'm glad to have joined this group!
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Craft.My.Dream 
 8 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex. +1
Sketching c'est la vie
Hi, I was guided by Alàn in his online sessions which helped me to go straight to the point in a limited amount of time. Especially choosing nice colors from photo. My Big step is that I finally filled 2 full sketchpads that I used to keep blank for 20 years of fear to mess the paper with poor results. There are some that could be framed now :) For the details, I even got a round brush to help my mop brush. I got a stool to go sketch in real life with Alàn in person. I fear no more to go with ink for the lines and I'm considering getting a fountain pen now. hahaha.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Linda Hackett 
 8 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. When your 'perspective hack" suddenly showed up one day last year on my computer I was hooked. My background includes having been a professional photographer and teacher, and also many years a botanical painter in watercolor. I have  especially since Covid been a participant in many online classes and workshops. But I really enjoy "visiting" with you once a week, at some exotic place or another, getting to mostly sketch buildings, which I find challenging. I especially like the 7 minute warmup with a colored pencil, no erasing. Then I appreciate the way you feel your way through the sketch, along with the rest of us it seems at a pace that is not too fast or tpo slow. Applying lines and watercolor next; it is fun to see the individual results from the class members at the end. I feel my sketches have improved from your thorough and patient instruction.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Edith Fischer 
 8 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +6
A great perspective course with Alán.
In urban sketching you need to know perspective drawing, it makes your sketching life much easier.
Since I joined Alán's course I could improve it so much! With his drawing demonstrations, he brakes dawn a complex scene in good steps, it all feels so natural, intuitive and easy to follow. I have sharpened to see the perspective lines and the right edges and can now enjoy the painting process with ink and watercolor much more.
Sometimes my love for colors brings some very fancy sketches!
I'm so happy to be part of Alán's sketching group.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Nicole Hart 
 8 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alan's courses have pushed me outside my comfort zone and I have learned a lot in terms of perspective, color, light and brush work. I am very happy I found this online group and look forward to it every week.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marissa Samonte 
 7 March 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +5
Seethelines is a great workshop online. Fun way is we sketch together and the 7 min sketch is a great idea to take away the scared feeling. Alan is very helpful in so many ways, from sketching to watercolour. It inspires me to go out and sketch on sight and no longer terrified by the thought of it. His teachings is straight forward and he guide me through my sketching life. Thank you Alan its a great pleasure to learn from your sketches. Looking forward to join the group soon.  Highly recommended.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Ying Loke 
 10 January 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +13
Happy New Year Alan..
Time sure flies!.3 more classes and I've been drawing with you for a year!! It was really fun! and I still remember the first few classes when we draw overtime and no one leaves, then later on when you try to end the class on time.. no one leaves.. we just pretend we didnt hear you... LOL

I learnt a lot form your class. Perspective, watercolor..etc I like the fact that we see other students work post on WhatsApp and I will compare mine to theirs and see where /what I can improve. Still haven't have the courage to sit out in public to let people see me draw.. plus it's 20+-F in Boston now.. so maybe this summer I will try.

For you to travel to different cities and capture the scenes for us to draw was nice. looking back on our classwork, I felt like we did travel with you to all these places!!  and maybe one day I will be there and say...I was there for at least 3 hours at one time!

I hope whoever is thinking of joining Seethe Lines will give it a try.

It was a great pleasure learning from you, Alan.

Happy New Year!!

Yvonne
=...DaiBo

Show trimmed content
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Roxie Dufour 
 9 January 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +5
It’s been 50 years since I picked up a paintbrush, literally! Alan’s clear instructions on paintbrush size, colors, paper. I was foggy on perspective but Alan’s step by step & building principles are a success. Each week Alan emphasizes mood & storytelling to incorporate in the featured drawing. I enjoy the replay,  convenience & ‘traveling’ the globe. One might say, I’ve waited 50 years for Alan.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mona Malik 
 7 January 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +2
I joined Alán's class in July 2024 and it is the best investment yet with reference to the quality of the guided zoom classes (consistently once a week). With Alán's dedication to mastering architectural perspective, plein air sketching, extensive travel experience and watercolor techniques, the weekly class is filled with detailed instruction as he guides us while we sketch together with Alán. I look forward to each class and have not missed one (even while on vacation:). In 2025, I hope to join one of Alán's in person workshops somewhere in the world.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Krysten Ross 
 6 January 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alán is a wonderful teacher. He made the concept of perspective so much easier to understand and to implement. What makes Alán's classes and outlook so important is the way he is always reminding us to slow down to see how beautiful life is. His online classes are fun, and they're beginner friendly as well. I always look forward to class when I'm able to attend. Thank you for all you do, Alán!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mike Pytlik 
 6 January 2025
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The joy of travel and love of art brought me to the idea of drawing and painting, both of which I assumed I was not the least bit talented.  I started a year ago with videos and a few online classes.  My interest is architecture, especially ancient and medieval, since I am an archaeologist and historian, I guess, and Alan's class is the right fit for me.  I love the online community and to be able to catch up with recordings if I am not able to join the live stream.  I've improved and love the meditative time I spend on the ink and wash.  Love the class and Alan's approach to teaching.
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Clare Portillo 
 29 September 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex. Sketching with Alan Ramiro
It has been incredible to observe Alan’s process and hear about his journey.  He has a unique style and a calming energy.   I have already learnt tons both on trips to Barcelona and Andalucía and on-line and will continue to do so.   I fully recommend working with him!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Riza Ponciano 
 4 September 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Getting the membership to the SeeTheLines community is one of the best things I did for myself this year. It's been so much fun 'travelling' via sketches and sketching along with others. I see my drawing improving and I am not that scared of taking up the brush and using watercolours as I once did before I started attending the classes. More power to you, Alan!
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Denise Brill 
 4 September 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex. +0
A new way of being with your art in the world
I had a wonderful experience attending Alan’s 4 week urban sketching course last month.
He brilliantly takes his own current sketching  at travel sites and shares them in the form of a lesson. I learned new ways to sketch and see the world. 
I highly recommend this course.
It will change your art in new ways of seeing and being in the world around you.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Eleni S 
 7 August 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +6
Alan's passion for urban sketching is truly inspiring. He brings a unique energy to each class, sharing his own sketches and experiences from drawing cityscapes and everyday scenes. His enthusiasm is contagious, and it sparks our interest in exploring urban environments through our sketches. He is always eager to share her knowledge and techniques, ensuring we understand each concept clearly. His lessons are filled with practical tips and encouragement, making the learning process both educational and fun. I am grateful for his guidance and look forward to continuing my artistic journey under his mentorship!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Anne Quito 
 30 June 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +0
Eye-opening, mind-opening. Thank you, Alán !
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   K Young 
 29 June 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great course whether new to urban sketching/watercolors or looking to fine tune your skills!  Alan has a calm and clear way of delivering guidance.  Look forward to an in-person course along my travels!
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Sohini Roy 
 8 June 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex. +2
Wanting to get back into art after 8 years, I felt immense pressure at each attempt due to the fear of perfection and upholding to my old standards. Alans sketching life workshops have been transformative in overcoming those barriers. 

Despite often choosing somewhat overwhelming compositions at first glance, he guides us in loosening up and capturing the essence of the landscape, covering everything from perspective principles like horizon lines and vanishing points to sketching tips and painting techniques. These workshops have been hugely beneficial to me as someone who has steered clear of watercolours in the past. He’s helped me see the beauty in their unpredictability; reflecting his philosophy of sketching intuitively and letting loose. I love his technique of blocking in the shadows with paint before adding ink. 

If you're considering joining, I’d highly recommend!!
  
 
     Posted on Trustindex  
   
   Luke 
 29 March 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Trustindex. +0
Discovering your creative genius with Alan
Alan has been the foundation of influence on my sketching journey. The online tutorials and recently, 1:1 coaching has definitely elevated my skills. From the first time a few years ago until now you can't even compare. Thanks mate keep on inspiring!!!🙏❤️
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Julia Micallef Filletti 
 2 February 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alan’s workshop was super insightful for me (who’s only recently entered the art world) to listen and look into the thought process of an artist. He helped us to realise how to break bigger pictures into smaller elements and to let go of the tight grip we often find ourselves having with perfectionism.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Margot Korhonen 
 28 January 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +2
This workshop was brilliant!!! So much great content, an engaged teacher and brilliant communication and support via the group chat. Loved it. Thanks Alan :)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Alexandre Louro 
 25 January 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Im very grateful to be a part of this amazing workshops it as been a wonderful experience. To learn and improve artistic skills, for beginners or more experienced beginners, with a common love for the arts. Thanks to our entusiastic and sage teacher Alan Rámiro i am improving and learning new artistic methods to creat art and consistency and in consequence of that being one step closer to my dream, for that my full gratitude!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Márk Osbáth 
 11 January 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Alán is a great teacher who not only shows you the techniques he uses in his art but also demonstrates the way we should be present in our surroundings.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Wim Wyloeck 
 10 January 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Robby Vandermark 
 5 January 2024
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I have been doodling most of my life but have never really gotten serious.  I am kind of new to Instagram but when I saw Alán's SeeTheLines reels something happened I really started feeling like I wanted to see if I could do something like him. The first workshop was amazing. I started learning right away especially how I started a drawing. I couldn't believe he was drawing shadows in the beginning like that and the way he used the watercolors was so cool. After only one class I have already seen improvement in my sketches. And he is funny too. I would highly recommend his workshop.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Bobby Garcia 
 7 June 2023
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. +6
I am both an online member of See the Lines and recently attended on of Alan’s workshops in NYC. Both are excellent and I highly recommend them. He teaching style is both approachable and precise. Like his paintings, the didactic approach he employs is layered at once serving newcomers with the pillars of composition with plenty of meat left on the bone to guide the intermediate watercolorist to reach that next level.

If you’re reading this, just get it. Trust me
  
 
 
  
 
 
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A Look Inside The Studio

7

Frequently Asked Questions

Are video recordings available?

Workshop replays
• Replays are available the day after each live class.
• You can watch them until the next month’s workshop series begins.

What materials and supplies should I have?

All materials can be found here: seethelines.com/tools
From a full art box, to additional tools than can be bought on Amazon.

Small pocket sketchbook for quick practice drawings.
Watercolor sketchbook or block minimum (A4 size)
(1) color pencil (blue color preferred)
Watercolors: add colors: ultramarine blue, yellow ochre, indian red, burnt sienna, lemon yellow, urban grey,
Brushes: 1 mop brush, 2 round brushes, 2 flat brushes
Permanent ink pens: Min. (3) line size pens or a fude nib fountain pen filled with ink, a black brush pen.
Two waterbrushes diluted with waterproof grey or black ink. One dark and one light. Test your mixes for best results (Noodler’s Lexington Gray suggested)
Water/ cup and paper towel

If I am completely new to urban/ architecture sketching, Is this workshop appropriate for me?

Yes absolutely and it is encouraged. We will work through foundation building for the complete beginner in a fun hit-the-ground-running way.

If I am more advanced will I still find value in this course?

The exciting thing about this workshop is that it will equip you with new ways to SEE. You will get unique professional architectural trained methodologies while discovering Alán’s particular technique and approach. But more than that you will return home with a boost of inspiration and vision to continue in your journey.

What if I cancel at the last minute?

Because we are a small group, last minute cancellations are nonrefundable.

Finish sketches faster with the Shadows-First Method

A simple, proven approach I use when the light is moving fast and I’m short on time.

This will be valuable for you if you want to…

Sketch confidently without overthinking composition
Add depth and life instantly with simple shadow placement
A method you can use anywhere, from cafés to cityscapes

Your free download is a designed and printable PDF for you to take on-location.

Alán Ramiro Manning

@seethelines

Alán Ramiro, an urban sketcher and educator based in Lisbon, combines his decade of architectural experience with a passion for travel and creativity. Through his workshops, Alán shares transformative techniques—like his innovative “sketching shadows first” approach, designed to help sketchers infuse personal experiences and energy into their art. Inspired by his studies abroad in Barcelona and a philosophy of embracing creativity through necessity, Alán’s teaching goes beyond replication, guiding participants to capture the essence of time, place, and spirit in every sketch.