My Week in Columbus is a 34-page, 4.5 x 6” booklet of watercolor and ink observations from Columbus, Indiana. The illustrations were made by Thirst’s Winter semester intern, Suzie Shin, under the direction of Rick Valicenti and Bud Rodecker. 

Rick proposed the idea of sending me to downtown Columbus as an on-site illustrator after he flipped through sketchbooks from my study abroad semester in Italy. It was quickly decided: I would experience Exhibit Columbus’ temporary architectural installations with fresh eyes, and we would make a booklet of illustrations.

My week was quiet, yet filled with unexpected moments and meetings. I had to adjust to the freezing and rainy weather by simultaneously painting and balancing an umbrella in the pocket of my jean jacket. I developed a friendship with one of the only Uber drivers in the area, Jennifer, and had her personal number saved in my phone. A particularly special moment was with Columbus Indiana Architectural Archivesspecialist, Trisha Gilson, who shared boxes of Alexander Girard’s textile swatches and a folio of Paul Rand’s hand-inked designs for Tipton Lakes.

My Week in Columbus is only a snapshot of what one can see and feel while visiting Columbus. As much as I was surprised by this rare opportunity to illustrate, I was even more surprised by feeling like I had not seen enough. I’ll certainly be back for the architecture, design, small-town charm, and welcoming community.