Genine Carvalheira loves seeing the moment when something clicks for a student and are excited, confident, and ready to create a sketchbook full of memories. We sat down with Genine talk about her teaching style and 2026 workshop in Venice.
How did you start teaching?
I started teaching somewhat by accident. I was invited to speak at an Urban Sketching event in South Korea, and only later found out they were expecting me to teach a workshop too. So I thought: if I could share just one thing, what would it be?
Having traveled a lot—often with people who don’t sketch—I knew the answer was sketching on the go. Being able to draw quickly helped me focus on what mattered most and stay grounded in the moment.
Genine Carvalheira loves seeing the moment a student lights up during a class —when excitement and confidence take over, and they take the next step on their creative journey.
What is your teaching philosophy?
I believe anyone can learn to draw and capture the world around them, no matter their experience or age. It’s not about making perfect pictures—it’s about slowing down, paying attention, and connecting with a moment. Sketching helps us be present, see more clearly, and appreciate the world in new ways.
What do you love about teaching?
What I love most is seeing that moment when someone realizes they can do it. Whether that means drawing for the first time or learning a new skill or technique, helping them capture memories and supporting their creative journey is truly rewarding.
Why are you excited about working with Il Chiostro?
I’m excited to work with Il Chiostro because they’ve been offering workshops in Italy for over 30 years, bringing deep experience and a genuine commitment to creativity and community. I am confident that their extensive knowledge of Venice will guide us to the best sketching spots and reveal all the hidden gems the city has to offer.
What do you hope students get out of the class?
I hope students leave with the confidence and excitement to capture their world and travels, along with a sketchbook full of memories. I want them to feel they’ve had a complete experience of Venice—blending meaningful learning with time to explore the city.
What are you looking forward to most during the trip to Italy?
I’m really looking forward to soaking in the unique vibe of Venice—its light, colors, and unexpected corners. Sharing this experience with others who love drawing and travel makes it even more special.
Additionally, seventeen years ago to the day this workshop will start, I took my first trip abroad—to Italy—and attended my very first sketching workshop as a student. Coming back now as the instructor makes this experience feel especially meaningful.
Anything else you’d like me to highlight?
In the months that lead up to the workshop, I’ll send helpful updates with travel tips, materials info, and inspiration. We’ll also have a virtual group meeting to connect and answer questions. Please feel free to email me anytime!
We are thrilled to work with Genine on her upcoming workshop in Venice taking place on October 10 – 17, 2026, To learn more or register visit, Capturing the Essence of Venice Through Ink, Watercolor, and Personal Expression
Genine Carvalheira is an Artist, Interior & Industrial Designer, and avid traveler. Originally from the U.S., she has lived in Canada and Colombia. A former President of Urban Sketchers, Genine has been a guest artist and instructor at international festivals, including Sketcher Fest in the U.S. and Bodø2024: European Capital of Culture in Norway. She has taught workshops in Mexico, South Korea, Colombia, France, Canada, the Philippines, Norway, and the U.S., inspiring others to see the world through sketching.
Since 2007, she has filled almost 100 sketchbooks, documenting her life and travels across more than 30 countries. Her sketchbooks serve as a visual journal, capturing the quiet beauty of everyday moments alongside the dynamic energy of new places, always ready to record life as it unfolds.
Her work has been exhibited at Main Street Gallery in Clifton Springs, NY, and featured in publications such as the Artist Magazine UK, The Urban Sketching Handbook series, and KulTur langs Magasin Nordlandsruta 2024, where she documented Norway’s Nordlandsruta trek as a reportage artist.